Apple Servers on Windows Networks
With new Directory Access modules, Apple servers can access account records stored in Active Directory — without requiring any modifications to the Active Directory schema. This enables Windows-based departments or workgroups to take advantage of the low-cost SMB file services in Mac OS X Server, while integrating with their existing Active Directory infrastructure for user account information and authentication. Secure network services — including network home directories — hosted on Mac OS X Server even support single sign-on for clients authenticated using Microsoft’s proprietary Kerberos implementation.
Using the powerful Workgroup Manager application in Mac OS X Server, it’s also possible to manage Mac clients on networks that rely exclusively on Active Directory. This requires some additional configuration of the Active Directory schema to include the necessary records and attributes. Administrators who prefer to use scripts can automate the process using the included command-line tools.
