Why migrate to Active Directory?

Active Directory is a very powerful tool and with the correct knowledge you can automate the installation of programs and use group policy to lock down user desktops. With Active Directory all of your network information is installed on a database on your central computer (Server) and clients access the database each time they log on to your companies network.

If you are a small business just getting started with Active Directory all you need is a Desktop Computer and a copy of Windows Server. Personally, I recommend Windows Server 2003, but if you are going to be working with Vista or Windows 7 clients I recommend using the new Server 2008.

Which version should I use?
For small business users the most affordable solution is Windows Small Business Server 2003. You can buy it from about £222 here.

For larger enterprises with 1000+ clients you may want to look in to setting up a data center. The best possible version of Windows Server for your master computer (domain controller) would be Windows Server 2003 Enterprise Edition. You would need to consider a backup domain controller in this environment because if your domain controller failed employees wouldn't be able to access the network. For file servers I recommend using Ubuntu Linux because it is stable, powerful and FREE!

What about licensing?
Clients joined to your companies Active Directory need Client Access Licenses in order to comply with the end user agreement from Microsoft. You can purchase these licenses from around £25 each.

Client Operating Systems
I have worked with many different operating systems on Active Directory and in my opinion Windows XP SP2 is the most stable. It is fast and has simple, stream like, visual themes unlike Vista which uses up all of your CPU. Some of you may argue but this is purely what I have experienced.

Thanks for looking at my blog. I hope I have helped you and given you a greater understanding of why active directory can be an effective solution for your business.

Hello Blogger!

I would like to share my experience of setting up an Active Directory Environment and provide useful hints and tips to those companies looking to migrate to this powerful system..
Look out for Daily posts with hints and tips using Active Directory on Windows Server 2003