> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://xedex.gitbook.io/internalpentest/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://xedex.gitbook.io/internalpentest/internal-pentest/active-directory/introduction/domain-controllers.md).

# Domain Controllers

A domain controller is a server with the AD DS (Active Directory Domain Service) server role installed that has specifically been promotted to a domain controller

![DC high representation](/files/-M0b2o-ll3cdvjdadDJy)

a DC :

* Host a copy of the AD DS directory store
* Provide authentication and authorization services
* Replicate updates to other domain controllers in the domain and forest
* allow administrative access to manage user accounts and network ressources