What is an Organizational Unit (OU) in Active Directory?

An Organizational Unit (OU) in Active Directory serves as a subdivision within the directory structure, designed to help manage and organize resources efficiently. It can contain various types of directory objects, such as user accounts, groups, computers, and even other OUs. By using OUs, administrators can delegate administrative tasks, apply Group Policies, and maintain a structured hierarchy that aligns with the organization’s needs.

The versatility of OUs allows for better management of Active Directory objects, enabling system administrators to group related resources together for easier access and control without affecting the overall setup of Active Directory. This structure enhances both security and organizational clarity within the directory.

Understanding the function of an OU is crucial for effective Active Directory management, as it aids in the hierarchical organization of users and resources, contributing to efficient network management and policy enforcement.