Explanation of terms
What is Active Directory?
Active Directory (AD) is a local, central directory service from Microsoft that serves as the linchpin for managing users, groups, devices and access rights in many organizations. Introduced with Windows Server, AD enables the central 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 of data through it can, in case of doubt, access the entire organization. The risk of misconfigurations, inadequate security measures or compromised users is correspondingly high.
Typical weak points:
- Default security configurations: Many organizations adopt preset AD policies unchanged. These are familiar and offer little protection against targeted attacks.
- Over-privileged users: Users often have more authorizations than necessary: a risk in the event of misuse or compromise.
- Low-complexity passwords: Especially for privileged users, a classic for brute force attacks (automated attempts to crack passwords by systematic trial and error).
- Lack of transparency: Without auditing, unauthorized access often remains undetected for a long time.
- Unpatched systems: Security gaps on domain controllers or in the AD structure can have serious consequences.
Best practices for a secure AD:
- Revise default security settings
The settings preset during installation are often too general. After setup, the configuration should be adapted to the specific operational requirements.
- Apply the least privilege principle
Roles and groups in AD should only be assigned the minimum necessary authorizations.
- Strict control of 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.
- Activate real-time auditing and alerts
The AD database and configuration must be backed up regularly. It is equally important to have a tested strategy for recovery if something goes wrong.
- Test backup & recovery regularly
Back up the AD database and configurations frequently and test recovery procedures to ensure reliability in case of incidents.
- Continuously patch systems
Vulnerabilities in operating systems or software components must be closed quickly to prevent attackers from gaining access.
- 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 basis for Identity & Access Management (IAM) in many organizations. Most identity processes, such as provisioning, role management or access control, run via AD or Entra ID. IAM solutions rely on AD to create user accounts, manage access rights and control identity lifecycles. Tight integration ensures security, efficiency and compliance, especially in hybrid environments. AD acts as a link between local systems, cloud applications and cross-platform infrastructures.