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best practices for tiering and active directory in case network separation

Anonymous
2025-01-05T14:23:04+00:00

Hello,

I have a scenario where we need to implement network separation between two domains (currently, the two domains operate on a trust relationship). What factors should be considered during the network separation, especially from the perspective of Active Directory or tiering, to minimize the impact after the separation?

All suggestions are welcome.

Thanks,
Rich

Windows Server Identity and access

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  1. Anonymous
    2025-01-06T11:06:38+00:00

    Hello Richa Kumari，

    Thank you for posting in Microsoft Community forum.

    Network separation between two domains that currently operate under a trust relationship involves several considerations to ensure continuity of operations and proper security.

    Here are some key factors to consider:

    1. Active Directory Considerations:

    Trust Relationships:

    Evaluate the necessity of maintaining the trust relationship. Decide if the trust will be removed or redefined after separation.

    Domain Controllers:

    Plan the placement of domain controllers (DCs) for each domain to ensure they are accessible within their respective networks.

    Replication:

    Ensure that all the necessary domain information is fully replicated before separation. Avoid replication issues that could arise after the split.

    FSMO Roles:

    Ensure that Flexible Single Master Operations (FSMO) roles are appropriately assigned within each domain.

    1. Security and Access Control:

    Policies and Permissions:

    Review and adjust Group Policies, Access Control Lists (ACLs), and other security policies to reflect the new network segregation.

    User and Group Permissions:

    Ensure that user and group permissions are adjusted to align with the new network boundaries.

    Service Accounts:

    Validate and update service accounts that may need cross-domain access, ensuring they operate correctly post-separation.

    1. Network Infrastructure:

    IP Addressing and Subnets:

    Plan and allocate IP addressing and subnets correctly for each domain to eliminate overlap and ensure separation.

    Firewalls and Routing:

    Configure firewalls and routers to enforce network policies that reflect the new domain separation.

    VPN Connections:

    Ensure VPN connections are adjusted or reconfigured as needed to support the new infrastructure.

    1. Application and Services Impact:

    Dependencies:

    Identify and document applications and services that depend on trust relationships or network connectivity between the domains.

    DNS Configuration:

    Ensure DNS is properly configured to resolve names correctly within and between the new network segments if necessary.

    Authentication:

    Test and update authentication mechanisms, ensuring they function correctly within the new network framework.

    1. Data and Resource Access:

    Shared Resources:

    Review and update access to shared resources, such as file shares, printers, and other network resources.

    Data Migration:

    Plan for any data migration that might be required to maintain data accessibility within the segregated networks.

    Backup and Recovery Systems:

    Ensure backup and recovery systems are properly configured to support the new network setups.

    1. Communication and Coordination:

    Stakeholder Involvement:

    Involve all relevant stakeholders in planning and communication to ensure a smooth transition.

    User Notification:

    Notify users about the changes, especially if there are changes in how they access resources or services.

    Training and Support:

    Provide necessary training and support to IT staff and end-users to adapt to the new infrastructure.

    1. Testing and Validation:

    Pre-Implementation Testing:

    Perform thorough testing in a lab environment to identify potential issues before implementation.

    Post-Implementation Monitoring:

    Monitor the system closely after separation to catch and resolve any unexpected problems promptly. By carefully considering and addressing these factors, you can minimize the impact of network separation on your Active Directory environment and ensure a smoother transition.

    I hope the information above is helpful.

    If you have any question or concern, please feel free to let us know.

    Best Regards,

    Daisy Zhou

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