Active Directory
Active Directory Overview
Active Directory (AD) was created by Microsoft in the mid-1990s to serve as a directory service for Windows-based networks. AD is the technology that helps system administrators authorize, authenticate, and manage computers, groups, and users who access a computer network. It also stores configuration and other information for key Microsoft products such as Microsoft Exchange.
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Recent Active Directory Articles
Using Remote Desktop Connection Manager
In this Ask an Admin, discover how to manage remote desktop connections with Microsoft's Remote Desktop Connection Manager (RDCM).
Setup a Domain Controller with Windows 2012 Server Core
Server Core excels as an Active Directory Domain Controller. This article will guide you through creating a DC with Windows 2012 Server Core.
Enable the Active Directory Recycle Bin in Windows Server 2012
Learn how to enable the Active Directory recycle bin in Windows Server 2012 using the Active Directory Administrative Center.
Dedicated Forest Root Domains in Active Directory
New Ask an Admin! Check out the benefits and disadvantages of using a dedicated forest root domain in your Active Directory design.
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Editor's Picks
Defragmenting an Active Directory Database
Need to keep AD running in top shape with Windows Server 2008? Brien Posey shows you how.
How can I prevent users from using USB removable disks (USB flash drives) by using Group Policy (GPO)?
Daniel Petri shows you how to block the use of USB drives on client machines by using Group Policy Objects (GPO).
Forcibly Removing Active Directory from a DC - Retire a Domain Controller
Looking to retire a domain controller? Daniel Petri shows you how to remove Active Directory from a domain controller before you do.
How to Install a Replica DC in an Existing AD Domain on Windows 2000
Need a second Domain Controller for an Active Directory domain on a Windows 2000 Server? Daniel Petri shows you how it's done.
Installing Active Directory on Windows Server 2008
Daniel Petri guides you through the steps required to create a Windows Server 2008 Domain Controller for a new Active Directory domain.
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