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5.2. Account > Windows AD
Active Directory (AD) is an implementation of LDAP directory services by Microsoft for
use primarily in Windows environments. The AD functions as the provider of central
authentication and authorization services for Windows-based computers. In addition, Active
Directory supports deploying software and assigning policies on a organizational hierarchy.
In workgroup mode, the SMB/CIFS service is responsible for authenticating users locally
when access is requested to shared resources. In domain mode, the SMB/CIFS service
uses pass-through authentication, in which user authentication is delegated to an Active
Directory domain controller. Independently of whether you will use the SMB/CIFS for
anonymous access, non-anonymous (workgroup)or in domain mode, the very first step is
to configure SMB/CIFS server. You can simply review and accept built-in system defaults.
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