The Essential Beginner's Guide to Microsoft Defender: Setting Up Sensors on Domain Controllers for Improved Security

In the ever-evolving landscape of cybersecurity, protecting your organization’s identity infrastructure is paramount. Microsoft Defender for Identity (formerly Azure Advanced Threat Protection) is a powerful tool that helps organizations detect and respond to identity-based threats. One of the key components of this solution is the deployment of sensors on domain controllers. This article will guide you through the process of deploying these sensors, enabling you to enhance your security posture effectively.

What is Microsoft Defender for Identity?

Microsoft Defender for Identity is a cloud-based security solution that monitors user activities and information across your Active Directory (AD) environment. It leverages machine learning and behavioral analytics to identify suspicious activities, such as compromised accounts or insider threats. By deploying sensors on your domain controllers, Defender for Identity can capture and analyze traffic, providing valuable insights into potential security risks.

Why Deploy Sensors on Domain Controllers?

Deploying sensors on domain controllers is crucial for several reasons:

1. Real-Time Monitoring: The sensors provide continuous monitoring of domain controller traffic, allowing for the immediate detection of suspicious activities.

2. Data Collection: Sensors capture Windows events and network traffic, which are essential for identifying potential attacks and understanding user behavior.

3. No Additional Hardware Required: The sensors can be installed directly on existing domain controllers without the need for dedicated servers or complex configurations.

4. Integration with Cloud Services: The data collected by the sensors is sent to the Defender for Identity cloud service, where it is analyzed and correlated with other threat intelligence.

Steps to Deploy Microsoft Defender for Identity Sensors

Step 1: Prerequisites

Before deploying sensors, ensure that you meet the following prerequisites:

• Licensing: Ensure you have the appropriate licenses, such as Microsoft 365 E5 or a standalone Defender for Identity license.

• Permissions: You need at least Security Administrator access in Azure AD to deploy sensors.

• System Requirements: The domain controller must run on Windows Server 2016, 2019, or 2022, with a minimum of 2 cores, 6 GB of RAM, and 6 GB of disk space.

Step 2: Download the Sensor

1. Access the Microsoft Defender Portal: Log in to the Microsoft Defender portal.

2. Navigate to Sensor Settings: Go to Settings > Identities > Sensors.

3. Add a New Sensor: Click on Add sensor and select Download installer. This will download the sensor installation package.

Step 3: Install the Sensor

1. Copy the Installer: Transfer the downloaded installation package to the domain controller where you want to deploy the sensor.

2. Run the Installer: Execute the installer on the domain controller. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation process.

3. Enter Access Key: During installation, you will be prompted to enter the access key, which you can find in the sensor settings of the Microsoft Defender portal. This key is crucial for the sensor to communicate with the cloud service.

Step 4: Configure Sensor Settings

1. Open the Microsoft Defender Portal: After installation, return to the portal to configure the sensor settings.

2. Manage Sensor Details: In the Sensors section, you can view and manage the details of the deployed sensor, including its health status and performance metrics.

3. Monitor Network Traffic: Ensure that the sensor is capturing network traffic and Windows events effectively. This data is essential for detecting anomalies and potential threats.

Step 5: Validate the Installation

1. Check Service Status: Verify that the Microsoft Defender for Identity sensor service is running on the domain controller.

2. Test Connectivity: Use tools like nslookup to confirm that the sensor can communicate with the Defender for Identity cloud service.

3. Review Alerts: Monitor the Microsoft Defender portal for any alerts or suspicious activities detected by the sensor.

Conclusion

Deploying Microsoft Defender for Identity sensors on your domain controllers is a critical step in enhancing your organization’s security posture. By enabling real-time monitoring and data collection, you can effectively detect and respond to identity-based threats. With the straightforward installation process and powerful capabilities of Defender for Identity, you can safeguard your organization’s identity infrastructure and protect against evolving cyber threats. Start deploying your sensors today and take a proactive approach to securing your digital environment!