TryHackMe | Active Directory Basics | Walkthrough
Channel: PLei
Date: 2024-01-19

This room will introduce the basic concepts and functionality provided by Active Directory.

*As always, I recommend to read through every task to get a complete understanding of each room. Happy learning!*

♾️TIMESTAMP ♾️
2:07 Task 1 - Introduction
3:20 Task 2 - Windows Domains
3:20 Task 3 - Active Directory
8:02 Task 4 - Managing Users in AD
21:25 Task 5 - Managing Computers in AD
23:40 Task 6 - Group Policies
36:39 Task 7 - Authentication Methods
38:00 Task 8 - Trees, Forests and Trusts
39:29 Task 9 - Conclusion


Active Directory (AD) is a directory service developed by Microsoft for Windows domain networks. It is a centralized and hierarchical database that stores information about network resources and the configuration of the network. Active Directory provides a variety of services, including:

Authentication: Active Directory authenticates and authorizes users and computers in a Windows domain network, ensuring that only authorized users can access resources.

Directory Services: It serves as a directory service, organizing and providing a hierarchical structure for the network resources, such as users, groups, computers, printers, and other objects.

Policy-based Management: Active Directory allows administrators to apply policies and settings to groups of users or computers, making it easier to manage and control the configuration of the network.

Single Sign-On (SSO): Once a user is authenticated, they can access multiple resources within the network without having to log in again. This enhances user convenience and security.

Security: Active Directory includes security features such as Kerberos authentication, which helps protect against unauthorized access and various security threats.

Group Policy: Administrators can use Group Policy to define and enforce security settings, software installations, and other configurations for groups of users or computers.

DNS Integration: Active Directory integrates with the Domain Name System (DNS), providing name resolution services and ensuring that network resources can be easily identified by their names.

Replication: Active Directory supports replication, allowing the distribution of directory data across multiple domain controllers. This ensures that the directory remains consistent and available even if individual domain controllers experience issues.

Active Directory is a critical component in Windows-based network environments, providing a unified and efficient way to manage and secure resources. It plays a central role in the administration and operation of enterprise-level networks, making it easier to organize, manage, and secure large-scale IT infrastructures.