Introduction to Domains

Info

Level: Beginner
Presenter: Eli the Computer Guy
Date Created: April 2, 2010
Length of Class: 47 Minutes
Tracks

Servers
Prerequisites

Introduction to Servers
Purpose of Class

This class explains the benefits of using a domain structured network.
Topics Covered

What Domains Are
Basic Concepts for Domains
How Domains are Created
Domain Controllers
Trusts and using Multiple Domains
Class Notes

Introduction
Domains provide an easier way for Administrators to manage Accounts, Permissions and Security for a large network.
Domain Basics
Domain controllers provide access keys to clients to allow or restrict access to network resources
Single place to administer permissions and security
Permissions and Security can be assigned to: Users, Groups, Organization Units
Permissions mean access to shared resources such as files, folders and printers. Security means restrictions about changing desktop background, password policies, access to local drives.
Ways to Have a doming
Windows is the standard type of domain environment
SAMBA -- Linux version of a PDC
Novell -- Still exists...
You need a business class Windows Operating System to join a domain. XP Pro, Vista Business / Ultimate, 7 Business / Ultimate
Domain Controllers
PDC/ BDC Structure. The PDC has a read and write copy of the security database. If the PDC fails a BDC will provide security information to the network. The BDC has a READ only copy of the database and so administrators cannot change user permissions on a BDC. A BDC can be promoted to a PDC. There is only one PDC in a domain at a time.
Active Directory. All Domain Controllers have read and write access (Theoretically, this can be modified).
Structure
Trusts allow users from one Domain to log on to computer in another Domain. Small offices would never need this. This is for large corporations that own numerous companies. If the Geek from the parent company needs to do work on the computers at the child company a trust relationship between the domains would be created.
There are multiple types of Trusts: One Way, Two Way, Transient
Final Thoughts
Domains are a great tool for large networks, but they require specialized computer technicians and equipment. Depending on the cost/ benefit analysis they may not be a good idea for small networks.
Resources

Novel Open Enterprise Server
SAMBA
Understanding Organizational Units