How to Join a Domain: A Simple 7-Step Guide for Windows and Mac

Learn how to connect your computer to your organization’s Active Directory domain in this easy-to-follow guide. Whether you’re using Windows or macOS, we’ll walk you through every step to join a domain successfully.

Table of Contents

1. What Is a Domain and Why Join One?
2. Requirements to Join a Domain
3. How to Join a Domain on Windows
   • Access System Properties
   • Edit Domain Settings
   • Authenticate Your Account
   • Restart Your Computer
4. How to Join a Domain on macOS
   • Open Directory Utility
   • Enable Active Directory
   • Input Domain Details
   • Customize Additional Settings
   • Bind to the Domain
5. Benefits of Joining a Domain

What Is a Domain and Why Join One?

A domain is a centralized network that allows computers and devices to share resources like files, printers, and security policies. Joining a domain simplifies IT management and enhances collaboration, especially in corporate and institutional settings.

Requirements to Join a Domain

Before getting started, ensure the following:

• For Windows: Pro, Education, or Enterprise edition of Windows 10/11.
• For macOS: Access to the Directory Utility tool.
• Network credentials provided by your IT administrator.

How to Join a Domain on Windows

Follow these steps to join a domain on a Windows computer:

1. Access System Properties

• Open the search bar or press the Windows key.
• Type sysdm.cpl and press Enter.
• The System Properties panel will open to the “Computer Name” tab.

2. Edit Domain Settings

• Click Change… and select the Domain option under “Member of.”
• Enter the domain name (e.g., yourcompany.com) provided by your IT administrator.

3. Authenticate Your Account

• Use the username and password of an account with domain-joining privileges.

4. Restart Your Computer

• Restart your computer to complete the process. Your computer will now connect to the domain automatically.

How to Join a Domain on macOS

Here’s how to connect your Mac to an Active Directory domain:

1. Open Directory Utility

• Open Spotlight search (Command + Space) and type Directory Utility.
• Select the app from the search results.

2. Enable Active Directory

• In Directory Utility, click Services at the top.
• Unlock the tool by clicking the lock icon and entering your admin password.

3. Input Domain Details

• Enter the domain name (e.g., yourcompany.com).
• Add a Computer ID if needed (avoid using hyphens).

4. Customize Additional Settings

• Expand Show Options to set user experience preferences, mappings, and administrative settings.

5. Bind to the Domain

• Click Bind and enter the necessary details, including credentials and organizational unit (OU).
• Save and confirm to add your Mac to the domain.

Benefits of Joining a Domain

• Centralized Resources: Access files, printers, and applications.
• Improved Security: Benefit from organization-wide security policies.
• Simplified IT Management: IT administrators can easily manage devices.