Active Directory Overview

Introduction to Active Directory

Active Directory (AD) is Microsoft’s directory service and the backbone of most Windows enterprise networks. It acts as both a digital phonebook and a security guard: it stores information about users, computers, and resources, while enforcing rules about authentication, access, and security.

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What is Active Directory?

AD is a hierarchical database that tracks network objects such as:

• Users and groups

• Computers and devices

• Applications and services

• Printers and shared resources

Beyond storing this information, AD enables:

• Authentication (proving identity)

• Authorization (defining what resources can be accessed)

• Centralized management (one place to control the entire network)

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Core Functions of Active Directory

• Identity Management

  • Centralized user accounts

  • Password policies and account lockouts

  • Profile and preference management

• Resource Management

  • Registration of computers, devices, and printers

  • Organization and discovery of network resources

• Security Services

  • Single Sign-On (SSO)

  • Access control and role-based permissions

  • Enforcement of security policies

• Directory Services

  • Hierarchical organization of objects

  • Global catalog for searching across domains

  • Replication for availability and fault tolerance

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Why Organizations Use Active Directory

• Administrative Benefits

  • Manage thousands of users from a single console

  • Automate provisioning for new employees

  • Enforce consistent policies across the network

• Security Advantages

  • Unified login credentials for all resources

  • Granular permissions and access control

  • Detailed audit logs for accountability

• Business Benefits

  • Improved productivity through reduced friction

  • Compliance support with regulatory standards

  • Scalability from small setups to global enterprises

  • Integration with Microsoft and third-party applications