This lab demonstrates basic Windows domain administration by setting up Windows Server 2016 on Oracle VirtualBox, and setting up Active Directory in a test environment along with Group Policies. Then further goes into using PowerShell to manage Active Directory and Group Policy on a Windows domain.
Active Directory (AD) is a directory service developed by Microsoft used to centrally manage and organize users, computers, and resources within a Windows-based network. Think of it as the control center of an IT environment — it handles identity verification, permissions, group policies, and secure access to resources like shared folders, printers, and applications.
At the heart of AD is a Domain Controller, which acts like a trusted gatekeeper, validating credentials and enforcing rules.
Whether it's a small office or a large enterprise, Active Directory is critical for keeping systems organized, secure, and functioning efficiently — especially in environments where centralization and control are key.
Group Policy is a powerful feature in Windows Server that allows administrators to centrally manage and enforce settings across users and computers in an Active Directory environment.
Through Group Policy, you can:
Group Policies are created using the Group Policy Management Console (GPMC) and are linked to Active Directory objects like Organizational Units (OUs). When a user logs in or a computer boots up, these policies are applied to ensure consistent security and configuration settings across the organization.
In a Windows Server lab, Group Policy lets you practice real-world system administration by designing and testing policies that shape the behavior of users and machines in a domain environment.
Active Directory objects are the building blocks of the Active Directory environment. Each object represents a real-world element — such as a user, computer, group, printer, or organizational unit — and contains information about that element in the form of attributes.
These objects are stored in a hierarchical structure within the AD database, making it easier to organize, manage, and secure resources across a network.
These objects are stored in a hierarchical structure within the AD database, making it easier to organize, manage, and secure resources across a network.
Each object is uniquely identified by a Distinguished Name (DN) and can have specific Group Policies applied to it.
In essence, AD objects give administrators the power to manage identity, access, and organization in a consistent, scalable, and secure way — all from a centralized point of control.
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