Active Directory Domain Services: Foundation and Administration

Every enterprise network relies on a robust identity and access management system to keep resources secure and organized. Active Directory Domain Services (AD DS) is the industry standard for managing users, computers, and permissions across a domain. This text-only course guides you from the absolute basics of network directory services to managing a functional domain environment. You will gain the confidence to handle daily administrative tasks, organize network resources, and implement essential security policies. What you'll learn: - Understand the core terminology of AD DS, including forests, domains, trees, and organizational units (OUs). - Deploy and configure domain controllers to establish a resilient network infrastructure. - Create and manage user accounts, groups, and computer objects using administrative best practices. - Implement Group Policy Objects (GPOs) to enforce security settings and software configurations across your organization. - Automate routine directory management tasks using essential PowerShell cmdlets. - Explore hybrid identity concepts, understanding how local Active Directory connects with modern cloud identity solutions. The course begins with foundational definitions of directory structures before moving into domain controller installation, user administration, security policies, and modern hybrid integration concepts. Designed for aspiring system administrators, IT support specialists, and beginners with no prior Active Directory experience, this course requires no pre-existing knowledge. Start reading today to build a strong foundation in enterprise network administration.