Deploy Microsoft Defender for Identity Sensors to Multiple Domain Controllers
Question details
The user needs to know whether a single Microsoft Defender for Identity sensor package and access key can be reused for all on-premises domain controllers, or if each controller requires its own dedicated sensor.
- Product
- Microsoft Defender for Identity
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- An organization is planning the rollout of Microsoft Defender for Identity and needs to configure sensors for multiple on-premises domain controllers.
- Observed behavior
- The user requires architectural clarification on sensor and access key deployment rules to ensure a successful and compliant security setup.
Ensure you have global administrator or security administrator access to your Microsoft Defender portal and a complete inventory of all on-premises domain controllers.
Assign a Separate Sensor and Unique Access Key for Each Domain Controller
To ensure proper security monitoring, you must deploy a dedicated sensor for each domain controller rather than reusing a single package or key.
Microsoft Defender for Identity architecture strictly requires a one-to-one relationship between domain controllers and sensors. You cannot reuse a single sensor package or its access key across multiple servers. Each domain controller must be individually configured to establish a secure and isolated connection to your workspace.
Log into your Microsoft Defender portal, navigate to the Identity settings, and add a new sensor specifically for your first target domain controller.
Once the sensor is created, copy the unique access key provided. This key is bound exclusively to this specific sensor.
Install the sensor package on the corresponding on-premises domain controller and enter the unique access key when prompted during setup.
Repeat this exact process to create a new, separate sensor and obtain a unique access key for every additional domain controller in your network.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I reuse one Microsoft Defender access key for all my domain controllers?
No, each domain controller requires its own separate sensor, and each sensor generates and uses a unique access key specifically associated with that domain controller.
Where can I get technical support for deploying sensors on on-premises domain controllers?
For dedicated technical deployment assistance, post your specific scenario in the Microsoft Q&A forums. Be sure to include the 'on-premises domain controller' tag so Microsoft engineers and community experts can locate your query.
Do I need to install a Defender for Identity sensor on every single domain controller?
Yes, to achieve comprehensive security coverage and accurately monitor all identity-related activities, it is highly recommended to deploy a unique sensor to every on-premises domain controller in your organization's environment.
