s about Active Directory
s about Active Directory
I've noticed a growing demand for Active Directory in our workplace. The main reason for considering it is security, though. Most of us are unfamiliar with it and feel uneasy about central control of our devices—what external threats exist? And if an attack occurs, how can we restrict the damage? Have there been any real incidents involving Active Directory in the past? With around a hundred computers and planning to move 95% to Windows 10, plus the challenges of automatic updates, it seems limited options remain for full control. Bandwidth is another issue—constant downloads would be overwhelming. Any advice or suggestions would be greatly appreciated. I'm exhausted from dealing with this situation.
Active Directory enhances security by streamlining user management. It provides clear visibility into network users, making it simple to disable or remove accounts when someone leaves. You can also control password expiration and other settings efficiently. Managing hundreds of computers without it would be challenging. I’ve seen clients with just ten machines running AD successfully.
To manage bandwidth concerns for updates, WSUS provides centralized oversight of deployment timing and recipients. Active directory offers unified access to network assets but doesn’t block local logins when required. When users operate personal devices, they can join the domain while retaining local accounts. Implement security tools such as Windows Defender Credential Guard to protect sensitive data that remains accessible in local mode. You retain greater authority over network access and can verify devices through scans, policy checks, and other safeguards before granting resources. The quick response is: consult a specialist. For small setups (≤20 machines), trial methods work but scaling isn’t reliable. A knowledgeable expert ensures stability and compliance. For deeper understanding, consider resources like the linked book.
I suggest considering the potential disaster if someone accessed the main hub where the computers are managed. How do we avoid interruptions? What happens if a server fails? Would no one be able to operate? For a medium-sized business like ours, managing hundreds of machines involves creating duplicate copies based on user needs. Once ready, these machines are handed over to users with updated usernames and passwords, and required software is installed automatically. It’s a time-consuming task but effective. Previously, we used KACE K1000 updates, but now Windows receives patches regardless. That’s why we require a WSUS server for better oversight. However, integrating Active Directory makes us hesitant. Personally, I’m open to switching to AD if it strengthens our security posture. Still, I lack sufficient confidence to fully persuade others. Our top priority remains protecting our systems.
Active Directory offers enhanced protection by limiting access for local administrators. It also allows integration with proxies to boost web security, while ensuring all devices are up-to-date with patches. Windows 10’s automatic updates aren’t available in domains—manage them via Group Policies and a dedicated SCCM/WSUS server. Updates follow a schedule: daily Defender patches, monthly Microsoft security roll-ups, and annual major version releases, which you can consolidate into a yearly task using Configuration Manager (latest version 1709). You gain full control over admin privileges, installation options, and folder access for each machine. Security is further strengthened by securing the AD forest with domain admin groups, strong passwords for local admin accounts, and appropriate policies for domain roles. For larger forests, aim for at least two AD servers (three recommended) to maintain database integrity, and implement a reliable backup system. Consider restricting services on AD controllers—ideally running DHCP and DNS locally, while other functions reside on separate servers. You don’t need to fully restrict everything; allowing local admin access on desktops can be acceptable if you centralize authentication and updates.
You can use backup controllers that handle the workload when the main one fails. Load balancing can be spread across several servers during heavy usage. Assign varying levels of server tiering so they can oversee parts of a domain and remain managed by primary servers. For operational purposes, it’s advisable to engage a consultant to assess your network and offer guidance. They can clarify available features and services to help you manage systems effectively while reducing disruptions to production equipment.
Explore the concept of Failover Cluster for maximum uptime. For advanced setups, consider Hyperconvergence using Storage Spaces Direct within a virtual machine management platform. You may need to invest in specialized hardware to support dedicated servers. Traditional options include combining virtualization with physical servers and SANs, or opting for hyper-converged solutions. Engage with vendors or solution integrators to test technologies from providers like Nutanix, VMware, Dell, Microsoft, Simplivity, HP, etc., and discuss pricing. High availability can be costly but delivers exceptional performance when reliable. Adding a backup system is wise if funds allow. @leadeater any additional insights you'd like?
This situation relates more to access management than general security. Avoid assigning domain admin rights to every account; instead, establish custom groups and limit permissions strictly to necessary roles. Organize teams around specific tasks or functions, and connect them through targeted group memberships. This approach supports the principle of least privilege—granting only the minimum required access. Ideally, maintain at least two physical servers in separate locations, even if they're in the same room, to guard against localized failures like power outages or fires.
The recommended setup includes VMware Essentials Plus and external storage for redundancy. We typically deploy this configuration across most clients we serve. For added protection, a backup NAS should be placed in a different facility. This design simplifies management for large client bases and ensures smoother collaboration when multiple users work on shared resources.
For policy enforcement, you can configure local settings in images or use Group Policy without relying solely on Group Policy if needed. Registry values are often sufficient.
I’m unsure about the exact requirements for Windows Server to run WSUS independently of AD, but implementing AD remains advisable. It’s wise to proceed cautiously with WSUS and consider it a secondary layer rather than a primary requirement.
Account security is another concern. If every machine has a single administrator account with identical credentials, your network becomes highly vulnerable. Lack of auditing through AD increases the risk of widespread compromise. Anyone exploiting that account could potentially spread malware across your entire environment without detection.
P.S. I no longer work for that support organization; it’s been over a decade since I was employed (exact date forgotten). Their processes have evolved significantly over time.
Everyone contributed valuable insights. I never considered having multiple AD servers, which made me realize how much research is needed. Appreciate all the help! This definitely resolved my doubts. For those who recommended bringing in a professional to give us a clearer picture, that was a great idea. +1. Now I’m ready to dive deeper into AD and put everything together so I can present it as soon as our busy season ends.