AZ-800 Administering Windows Server Hybrid Core Infrastructure Exam

Deploy and Secure Domain Controllers in Azure

Deploying and securing Domain Controllers in Azure starts with careful planning to ensure a reliable hybrid directory service. You need to understand network requirements, VM sizing, and storage options before you create any resources. Proper setup allows your domain controllers to sync with on-premises Active Directory without interruptions. By following a structured approach, you can build a strong foundation for directory services in the cloud.

Provisioning virtual machines (VMs) for domain controllers involves choosing the right VM size and storage type to meet your organization's needs. You should place these VMs in a virtual network that connects to on-premises resources if needed. Key considerations include:

• VM Size and Storage: Ensuring the VM can handle authentication requests and directory data.
• Network Configuration: Placing VMs in the correct subnet with appropriate IP addressing.
• Integration: Setting up VPN or ExpressRoute for secure on-premises connectivity.

Ensuring high availability and proper replication is essential to keep your directory data consistent and accessible. Azure offers Availability Sets and Availability Zones to distribute VMs across separate physical hardware. Setting up replication through Active Directory Sites and Services guarantees that all domain controllers stay in sync. Important strategies include:

• Availability Sets/Zones: Distribute domain controllers to avoid single points of failure.
• Replication Topologies: Create site links and configure schedules to optimize data flow.
• Health Monitoring: Regularly check replication status and VM health.

Securing domain controllers in Azure requires a combination of role-based access control (RBAC) and network security groups (NSGs). RBAC lets you assign precise permissions to administrators, while NSGs control traffic to and from your VMs. You should also define backup and recovery plans to protect against data loss. Key security measures include:

• RBAC: Limit who can create, delete, or modify domain controller resources.
• NSGs: Enforce rules that only allow required ports and addresses.
• Backup Policies: Use Azure Backup or similar tools to schedule regular snapshots.

A clear deployment process helps you avoid misconfigurations and downtime. Follow these steps to set up a robust Azure-based domain controller environment:

1. Provision VMs – Choose VM size, attach disks, and set up the virtual network.
2. Install AD DS – Promote each VM to a domain controller using the AD DS wizard or PowerShell.
3. Configure Replication – Create site links and replication schedules for data consistency.
4. Apply Security Controls – Implement RBAC, configure NSGs, and enable backup policies.

Conclusion

Deploying and managing domain controllers in Azure requires careful planning, from VM provisioning to network design and security enforcement. By leveraging availability sets or zones and proper replication topologies, you ensure directory data remains accessible and consistent. Implementing RBAC, NSGs, and reliable backup strategies helps protect your infrastructure from threats and data loss. Following a structured deployment process makes your hybrid Active Directory environment both resilient and secure.