Overview
This lecture explains the role of systems administrators and the importance of centralized management for efficiently managing user accounts, access, and configuration in large organizations.
Role of Systems Administrators
- Systems administrators (SysAdmins) are responsible for managing and maintaining IT systems to ensure their availability.
- Manually updating and configuring each server or user device is time-consuming and inconsistent.
Centralized Management & Directory Services
- Centralized Management uses a single service to manage and instruct IT infrastructure from one location.
- Directory Services provide centralized authentication, authorization, and accounting (AAA) for users and computers.
- Creating a user account in Directory Services makes it available across the entire network.
Access Control and User Groups
- Access to IT resources is typically managed based on user roles rather than individual identities.
- User groups organize accounts by roles, locations, or other relevant criteria for easier management.
- Assigning users to groups allows for efficient permission management and resource access.
Role-Based Access Control (RBAC)
- RBAC grants access to resources based on a user's role in the organization, managed through user groups.
- New users or role changes only require updates to group membership, not individual permissions.
Centralized Configuration Management
- Centralized configuration involves managing computer and software settings from a central location.
- Configuration tasks such as printer setups and software installations are managed centrally to reduce manual effort.
- Tools like logon scripts can automate configuration each time a user logs in.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Directory Services — Centralized system for managing users, computers, and network resources.
- AAA (Authentication, Authorization, Accounting) — Framework for controlling and tracking access to IT resources.
- User Groups — Organizational units for managing multiple user accounts with similar access needs.
- Role-Based Access Control (RBAC) — Method of granting access based on a user's role via group membership.
- Centralized Configuration Management — Management of computer and software settings from a central location.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review how directory services and user groups are implemented in your organization.
- Explore configuring logon scripts for automated user and computer setup.