Active Directory Domain Information
Introduction
This article was written to provide readers with information on AD and determine if their computer is part of an AD domain.
Applicability
Target Audience:
- Anyone next to their computer who wants to know their computer’s domain
Non-applicable:
Details
What is Active Directory?
Active Directory (AD) is the system our organization uses to manage user accounts, passwords, computers, and access to network resources such as shared folders, printers, and applications.
When you sign in to your computer with your work username and password, Active Directory confirms who you are and connects you to everything you need for your job. It also applies security settings to make sure you only access information that’s appropriate for your role.
Why it’s important:
- Keeps your login and files secure.
- Provides a single sign-in for multiple systems and services.
- Helps IT manage accounts, passwords, and permissions in one place.
- Ensures consistency and security across all organization devices.
AD domains at the U of A include, but are not limited to:
- sts.ad.ualberta.ca (STS) (also called Central Domain)
- engineering.ualberta.ca (ENGG)
- ualibrary.ualberta.ca (UALIBRARY)
- registrar.ualberta.ca (RO)
- med.ualberta.ca (MED)
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why do I need to log in with my work account?
A: Logging in with your work account allows Active Directory to verify your identity and give you access to the correct network resources securely.
Q: What happens if I forget my password?
A: Contact IT Support. They can reset your password directly in Active Directory so you can sign in again.
Q: Why do I sometimes lose access to a folder or printer?
A: Access rights are managed through Active Directory. If your role changes or IT updates permissions, your access may change automatically.
Q: Can I use my work account on different computers?
A: Yes. Active Directory lets you sign in to any domain-connected computer and get your usual access and settings.
Q: How does this keep things secure?
A: Active Directory ensures only authorized users can log in, enforces password policies, and keeps sensitive information protected.
How to tell if your computer is joined to a domain
Standard Process for Windows 11
Standard Process for Windows 11
This section will describe multiple ways to find out if your computer is on an AD domain.
1.0 Windows Login Screen
This method is preferred if you cannot log into your computer.
- If you are logged out already, continue to the next step. If you are signed into your computer, log out as follows:
- Click the Start Menu icon at the bottom of your screen.
- Click the User icon on the left tab of the Start menu
- Click Sign out
- You should now be in the Windows login screen and the domain is given as shown below under the password field:
If your login screen does not show “Sign in to” (Windows 10 and 11) your computer is likely not part of a domain
Note: For Windows 7: It should say “Log on to”
2.0 Windows Settings
This method uses About your PC from Settings.
- Tap the Windows key on your keyboard, to the left of the spacebar.
- Type About your PC in the search field in the window that comes up then click About your PC
- The domain is shown in the Full device name field
3.0 Command Prompt
- Type Windows Key+R to open Run
- Type cmd in the field
- Once Command Prompt opens type wmic computersystem get domain. The output will be the computer’s domain.
- Computers that are not on any domain will show WORKGROUP as shown below:
Additional Considerations (Notes)
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Keywords: central domain, sts.ad.ualberta.ca, joined, sts domain