the_information_nexus/docs/tech_docs/cyber_lab.md

To refine our discussion into a final draft for setting up an Active Directory (AD) domain homelab.local for your home, including a detailed cybersecurity lab and efficient management of your home network, NAS, laptops, and other IT equipment, we'll structure the guide with precise steps and configurations.

Final Guide: Setting Up homelab.local AD Domain

Introduction

This guide outlines the process for creating an Active Directory (AD) domain, homelab.local, tailored for a comprehensive home network that includes personal devices, a cybersecurity lab, network-attached storage (NAS), and various IT and server equipment. It focuses on security, management, and operational efficiency.

Domain Configuration

Step 1: Domain and Controller Setup

1. Primary Domain Controller (PDC): Choose a dedicated or virtual server with sufficient resources to run Windows Server. This server will manage the homelab.local domain.

2. Secondary Domain Controller (SDC): Optional but recommended for redundancy. Can be less resource-intensive and also runs Windows Server.

Step 2: Organizational Units (OUs) and Structure

1. Create OUs for Major Areas:

   • CyberLab: For cybersecurity research and testing.
   • HomeDevices: For personal and home devices.
   • NAS: For network-attached storage access and management.
   • Users: For managing user accounts and permissions.

2. Define Sub-OUs:

   • Under CyberLab: Create Testing Environments, Research, Tools.
   • Under NAS: Create Media, Personal Storage, Lab Data.

Step 3: Security Groups and User Accounts

1. Establish Security Groups:

   • LabAdmins, FamilyMembers, MediaAccess, Guests, with permissions tailored to their needs.

2. Create User Accounts:

   • Setup Admin Account(s) for AD and resource management.
   • Create individual Family User Accounts and Guest Accounts as needed.

Step 4: Network Configuration and Security

1. Segment LAN/WLAN:

   • Differentiate between CyberLab and HomeDevices networks for security and traffic isolation.

2. Implement Firewall Rules:

   • Control traffic between network segments, especially protecting CyberLab resources.

Step 5: NAS Configuration and Access

1. Set Up Storage Areas:
   • Allocate Media, Personal Storage, and Lab Data areas within the NAS, setting appropriate access permissions for each user or group.

Step 6: Group Policy Objects (GPOs)

1. Define Key Policies:
   • Enforce a strong Password Policy.
   • Set an Update Policy for automatic Windows updates.
   • Apply Software Restrictions to limit installations on personal and home devices.

Enhanced Mermaid Diagram

To accompany the final guide, the following Mermaid diagram provides a visual representation of the homelab.local setup:

graph TD;
    A[PDC: homelab.local] -->|Manages| B[CyberLab]
    A -->|Manages| C[HomeDevices]
    A -->|Manages| D[NAS]
    A -->|Manages| E[Users]

    B --> F[Testing Environments]
    B --> G[Research]
    B --> H[Tools]

    C --> I[Personal Laptops]
    C --> J[Smart Home Devices]

    D --> K[Media]
    D --> L[Personal Storage]
    D --> M[Lab Data]

    E --> N[Admins]
    E --> O[Family]
    E --> P[Guests]

    N --> Q[Admin Account]
    O --> R[Family User Accounts]
    P --> S[Guest Accounts]

Conclusion

This guide and diagram serve as a comprehensive blueprint for setting up a secure and efficient Active Directory domain for your home network and cybersecurity lab. By following these steps, you can create a well-organized, manageable environment that supports both your professional and personal digital activities.