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Introduction

Active Directory (AD) is a Microsoft service for Windows domain networks.It provides essential services for managing network resources, user accounts, authentication, and application-specific data.

Core components include:

• AD DS (Domain Services)
• AD LDS (Lightweight Directory Services)
• AD CS (Certificate Services)
• AD FS (Federation Services)
• AD RMS (Rights Management Services)

Active Directory Structure

1. Domains – Collections of objects (users, groups, devices) sharing a common database
2. Trees – Groups of domains connected in a hierarchical structure
3. Forests – The top layer, composed of multiple trees interconnected by trust relationships

Key Concepts in Active Directory

1. Directory – Stores all information about AD objects
2. Object – Represents entities such as users, groups, or shared folders
3. Domain – A container for directory objects; multiple domains can coexist within a forest
4. Tree – A grouping of domains that share a common root domain
5. Forest – The highest level in AD, made up of multiple trees with trust relationships

Services Provided by Active Directory Domain Services

1. Domain Services – Centralized data storage, authentication, and search functionalities
2. Certificate Services – Creation, distribution, and management of digital certificates
3. Lightweight Directory Services – Directory-enabled application support via LDAP
4. Federation Services – Single sign-on (SSO) across multiple web applications
5. Rights Management – Protects copyrighted content by restricting unauthorized distribution
6. DNS Service – Critical for resolving domain names

Common Active Directory Vulnerabilities

1. Weak Password Policies – Simple, guessable passwords lacking complexity or length
2. Unpatched Software and Systems – Outdated systems exploited via known vulnerabilities
3. Excessive Privileges – Over-privileged accounts increase risk if compromised
4. Inadequate Monitoring and Logging – Fails to detect suspicious activities or breaches
5. Lack of Network Segmentation – Allows attackers to move laterally with ease
6. Phishing & Social Engineering – Tricks users into disclosing credentials or installing malware
7. Misconfigured Service Accounts – Often over-privileged and high-value targets
8. Insecure LDAP Bindings – Unencrypted LDAP traffic can expose credentials to interception