What is "Active Directory" for W2K?

[MichaelD]

I need to bone up on it for some work-related stuff. I know a good deal about W2K and prolly use Active Directory already...but wth is it?

 

[juiio]

Here's the very short answer:

Active Directory is the directory service included with Windows 2000 Server. It stores information about objects on a network and makes this information available to users and network administrators. Active Directory gives network users access to permitted resources anywhere on the network using a single logon process. It provides network administrators with an intuitive hierarchical view of the network and a single point of administration for all network objects.

If you actually want to learn about it, you'll need a book or a really good online reference.

 

[MichaelD]

Thanks, juiio, I appreciate your great response. So, basically it's where all the user's permissions are shown...where you go when you create a share, correct?

I do need to read up on it. I have a working knowledge of how to do basic stuff, but I need to learn a lot more and quickly. Online resources, anyone?

 

[Tiger]

Think of it as a database of all of the objects on a network and their associated attributes.

 

[MichaelD]

How do I get to it?

 

[mobogasm]

win2kserver->administrative_tools->server_setup(or something similar to that)

 

[Woodie]

AD is what creates/makes a group of computers/users a "Domain", within a unified (TCP/IP) name-space. It's where all authentication for access to resources within the domain takes place.

Are you familiar with either Kerberos Realms or LanMan domains? (from NT, OS/2 days) AD replaces that domain concept.

 

[juiio]

Originally posted by: MichaelD
How do I get to it?

On the Win2k resource kit CD, use replmon.

 

[Woodie]

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Originally posted by: MichaelD
How do I get to it?
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If you mean "Where do I install it from?", then it's on the W2K Server (or AS) CD. Install the Server OS, then Start - Settings - Admin Tools - Configure Your Server. Choose the AD link on the left pane.

If you mean "How do I admin it?", then you have to install the appropriate Admin Pack, then Start ... Admin Tools - Active Directory Users and Computers.

 

[HeinekinMan]

A very good book on this subject is one that was published by the now defunct company Coriolis titled:

Windows 2000 Active Directory Black Book, ISBN: 1-57610-256-4. The list price is $49.99

I managed to snag one during their going out of business sale for mere peanuts, $7.49! It's really too bad they went under because they've published some really great books, especially on Windows. You might be able to find one on Amazon or eBay...

 

[TW2002]

At the run dialog type.........dcpromo. This starts the installation.You will need either a functioning DNS server, to contact, or install DNS on the box your setting up AD. AD is completely dependent on DNS and if configured incorrectly your AD/DOmain will not function very well. After the installation AD Users and computers will appear in the admin tools.If not run adminpak.msi.

The MS site has lots of Walkthroughs on AD.The Server resource guide is available online as well.

Good luck.

 

[Woodchuck2000]

At the run dialog type.........dcpromo...

That's only for making a Windows 2000 server into a domain controller of some type. If you are on a network which users active directory, install adminpak.msi from the Win2K CD and a shortcut will appear in your adiministrative tools. This can connect to the active directory and allow you to view/administer the AD remotely.