Why OU Structure Matters

A well-designed OU structure makes it easier to apply Group Policies, delegate permissions, and manage objects. Poor structure leads to administrative nightmares.

Recommended OU Structure

Domain Root
??? Domain Controllers (built-in)
??? Computers
?   ??? Workstations
?   ??? Laptops
?   ??? Servers
??? Users
?   ??? IT Department
?   ??? HR Department
?   ??? Sales Department
?   ??? Executives
??? Groups
?   ??? Security Groups
?   ??? Distribution Groups
??? Service Accounts

Create OUs with PowerShell

New-ADOrganizationalUnit -Name "Computers" -Path "DC=company,DC=com"
New-ADOrganizationalUnit -Name "Workstations" -Path "OU=Computers,DC=company,DC=com"
New-ADOrganizationalUnit -Name "Laptops" -Path "OU=Computers,DC=company,DC=com"
New-ADOrganizationalUnit -Name "Servers" -Path "OU=Computers,DC=company,DC=com"

Best Practices

  • Separate by type: Users, Computers, Groups in different top-level OUs
  • Geographic separation: If multi-site, use location-based OUs
  • Don't go too deep: Maximum 3-4 OU levels
  • Service accounts separate: Keep them in dedicated OU with restricted GPOs
  • Block inheritance carefully: Only block when absolutely necessary

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Creating OUs for every team (use groups instead)
  • Too many nested levels
  • Mixing computer types in same OU
  • Not documenting your structure

Moving Objects Between OUs

Move-ADObject -Identity "CN=JohnDoe,OU=OldOU,DC=company,DC=com" -TargetPath "OU=NewOU,DC=company,DC=com"

Delegate Permissions

Right-click OU ? Delegate Control ? Add users ? Select tasks (Create/Delete users, Reset passwords, etc.)