Introduction to Active Directory (AD)

Simplified Explanation for Beginners

• Common Mistake: Overly technical explanations can confuse beginners.
• Goal: Explain Active Directory in relatable, simple terms.

Analogies to Simplify Learning

• Learning to Drive: Start with the basics and practice to improve skills.
• Computer Login: Introduce AD as the place where login credentials are stored.

What is Active Directory?

• Basic Definition: A directory service within a Windows Server that stores user login credentials.
• Scenario: Starting a new job and receiving a login ID and password.
  • Credentials come from AD.

Accessing Active Directory

• How to Find It:
  1. Go to Start Menu
  2. Click on Windows Administrative Tools
  3. Select Active Directory Users and Computers

Structure of Active Directory

• Users Folder: Contains login IDs for all users.
• Groups: Different groups have different permissions.
  • Example groups: Accounting, Collections

Creating Users in AD

1. Basic Steps:
   • Right-click Users folder > New > User
   • Fill in user details (e.g., Susan Jackson, Larry Buffett)
   • Provide a login ID and temporary password
2. Example Users Created:
   • Susan Jackson (Accounting)
   • Larry Buffett (Accounting)
   • Mike Bobson (Collections)
   • Laura Bailey (Collections)
   • Mary Pipkins (Collections)

Creating Groups in AD

1. Basic Steps:
   • Right-click Users folder > New > Group
   • Name the group (e.g., Accounting, Collections)
2. Adding Users to Groups:
   • Example: Add Susan Jackson and Larry Buffett to Accounting
   • Example: Add Mike Bobson, Laura Bailey, Mary Pipkins to Collections

Importance of Group Assignment

• Permissions: Different groups have different access levels and permissions.
• Organization: Keeps users organized and simplifies access control.

Practical Exercises

Adding Users

1. Example User Addition: Susan Jackson
   • Follow steps to create the user Susan Jackson with login ID 'Susan J'.
   • Provide a temporary password.
   • Repeat for other users (Larry Buffett, etc.).

Adding Groups

1. Creating Accounting Group:
   • Right-click > New > Group
   • Name: Accounting
   • Add members: Susan Jackson, Larry Buffett

Resetting Passwords and Unlocking Accounts

• Scenario: Larry can't log in.
  • Right-click on Larry's account > Reset Password
  • Provide new temporary password
  • Unlock account if locked

Conclusion

• Purpose of AD: Organize user credentials and manage access within a domain.
• Further Learning: Basics covered; additional details for system admin roles.
• Encouragement: Start with basics and gradually advance to more complex admin tasks.

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