When many friends first encounter Active Directory, they often ask one question: What is Active Directory for? This is akin to questions asked in computer proficiency exams or national IT certification tests: What is the Internet? The simpler the question seems, the harder it can be to answer. Let's first take a look at Microsoft's explanation:
**Windows 2000 Active Directory Overview:** [http://www.microsoft.com/china/windows2000/guide/server/features/dirlist.asp](http://www.microsoft.com/china/windows2000/guide/server/features/dirlist.asp)
**Introduction**
Why provide directory services?
What is Active Directory?
Microsoft’s directory services strategy
How does Active Directory work?
What are the benefits of using Active Directory services?
Simplify management
Enhance security
Expand interoperability
Conclusion
Related links
... For more articles on Active Directory management, please refer to **Active Directory Network Management - gnaw0725 Management Log**: [http://gnaw0725.blogbus.com](http://gnaw0725.blogbus.com)