Microsoft Active Directory is a state-wide authentication directory that supports enterprise systems, provides contact information and scheduling integration, along with providing mechanisms for centralized desktop management. The purpose of the Active Directory is to migrate all AAST staff into a single AD forest, which will provide the following benefits:

• Single user name and password.
• Reduce overhead through standardization.
• Improve services through centralized management capabilities.
• Provide foundation for the following AD related services:
- Exchange
- SharePoint
- Wi-Fi Secure Authentications
• Improve workstation security.
• Central storage provided for individuals and departments.
• Backup and restoration services for central storage.
• Server storage space for user documents.
• Backed up data on Home and Departmental drives.
• Lower departmental cost because infrastructure is managed and maintained centrally.