Lepide Auditor Suite
Active Directory (AD) has become a fundamental component in optimizing IT management and security. By allowing centralized authentication and authorization across enterprise resources, AD supports a seamless user experience and reduces risks associated with managing multiple access points. However, administering an AD infrastructure can be complex and challenging without the right tools. Lucky enough, there have been advancements in the technology of active directory management tools which are designed to simplify the administration process. In this blog post, we will delve into the top 5 active directory management tools to help IT administrators manage AD infrastructure efficiently.
1. ManageEngine ADManager Plus
ADManager Plus is a web-based tool that simplifies the administrative tasks of AD managed by streamlining activities such as password management, group policy creation/deployment, user provisioning and deprovisioning. This tool provides a simple interface for creating role-based control enabling compliance adherence as well as logging changes to Active Directory. The software also helps in generating reports for activities being done in AD to ensure you comply with auditing standards.
2. SolarWinds Server & Application Monitor
The SolarWinds Server & Application Monitor is one of the best AD management tools for IT professionals that need deeper insight into server performance. It’s an advanced monitoring tool that provides alerts and insights into AD infrastructure, making technicians aware of issues before they affect user experience. The software allows custom AD performance monitoring enabling IT administrators to monitor specific AD activities crucial for the system’s overall performance.
3. Quest Foglight for Active Directory
The Quest Foglight for Active Directory is an all-in-one product that provides a suite of tools appropriate for managing an enterprise-level Active Directory environment. From user and group management, to real-time auditing and compliance, this tool covers it all. The software provides deep auditing and assessment tools that enable IT administrators to track user activities and generate comprehensive reports in just a few clicks. Quest Foglight also offers an intuitive dashboard showing real-time stats of the AD infrastructure, making it easier to identify performance issues and take corrective actions.
4. ManageEngine ADAudit Plus
ADAudit Plus helps IT administrators track, monitor, and report on Active Directory changes in real-time. With ADAudit Plus, administrators can monitor AD logs in real-time to provide full visibility into AD activity. The software helps in out-of-the-box regulatory compliance reports with provisions to create custom reports. Also, if any unauthorized change to AD occurs, you can set alerts to be triggered via email or SMS to notify IT administrators on the change done.
5. SolarWinds Access Rights Manager
SolarWinds Access Rights Manager (ARM) is an excellent tool that eases the access management burden. With ARM, it’s easy to assess the actual and desired access rights criteria for your AD users. The software allows for user template creation, simplifying the grant or revocation of access rights. ARM also helps IT administrators in assessing the risk level of access rights for security purposes.
The above-mentioned Active Directory management tools are essential to managing an enterprise-level AD infrastructure. They help admins streamline tasks such as monitoring, backup and recovery, compliance adherence, user provisioning, and management, thus enhancing the overall performance of an AD infrastructure. Choosing the appropriate tools for your organization matters, and investing in the right suite of tools will undoubtedly pay off in the long run.
