Explanation of terms
What is Active Directory?
Active Directory (AD) is a local, centralized directory service from Microsoft that serves as the hub for managing users, groups, devices, and access rights in many organizations. Introduced with Windows Server, AD enables centralized control of authentication, authorization, and system administration within a network.
Why is AD relevant to security?
AD is at the heart of many IT infrastructures. Anyone who gains control over data can, in case of doubt, access the entire organization. The risk is correspondingly high in the event of misconfigurations, inadequate security measures, or compromised users.
Typical weaknesses:
- Standard security configurations: Many organizations adopt preset AD policies without modification. These are well known and offer little protection against targeted attacks.
- Overprivileged users: Users often have more permissions than necessary, posing a risk in the event of misuse or compromise.
- Low-complexity passwords: A classic target for brute force attacks (automated attempts to crack passwords by systematically trying different combinations), especially for privileged users.
- Lack of transparency: Without auditing, unauthorized access often remains undetected for a long time.
- Unpatched systems: Security vulnerabilities on domain controllers or in the AD structure can have serious consequences.
Best practices for a secure AD:
- Revise standard security settings
The default settings during installation are often too general. After setup, the configuration should be adjusted to specific operational requirements.
- Apply the least privilege principle
Roles and groups in AD should only be assigned the minimum necessary permissions.
- Strictly control administrative rights
Only selected IT users should be assigned domain or administrator rights. These rights can be further restricted, particularly with tools such as PowerShell and Just Enough Administration (JEA) or PAM solutions.
- Enable real-time auditing and alerts
The AD database and configuration must be backed up regularly. Equally important is a tested recovery strategy in case something goes wrong.
- Test backup and recovery regularly
Back up the AD database and configurations frequently and test recovery procedures to ensure reliability in case of incidents.
- Continuously patching systems
Vulnerabilities in operating systems or software components must be closed quickly so as not to provide attackers with any gateways.
- Centralization & Automation
Consolidate management and reporting where possible. Automate workflows to reduce errors and increase operational efficiency.
AD & IAM – how do they fit together?
Active Directory (AD) is the central foundation for identity and access management (IAM) in many organizations. Most identity processes, such as provisioning, role management, and access control, run through AD or Entra ID. IAM solutions rely on AD to create user accounts, manage access rights, and control identity lifecycles. Close integration ensures security, efficiency, and compliance, especially in hybrid environments. AD acts as a link between local systems, cloud applications, and cross-platform infrastructures.