How does Windows support network authentication using Kerberos and NTLM (NT LAN Manager)?

[ProfRon]

Windows handles network logins with Kerberos mostly. I like how it works like a secret handshake between your computer and the server. You request a ticket from the domain controller. It checks your credentials quick. Then you flash that ticket to access stuff. Kerberos shines in big setups because it trusts the time on clocks. If clocks drift, it gets picky. That's why I sync times everywhere.

NTLM kicks in when Kerberos can't. You know, like old machines or simple shares. It challenges you with a puzzle based on your password hash. You solve it, and boom, you're in. I use it less now. It's weaker against sneaky attacks. Windows picks Kerberos first in domains. Falls back to NTLM if needed. You see it in mixed environments. I tweak group policies to nudge toward Kerberos. Keeps things smoother.

Sometimes NTLMv2 pops up for a bit more bite. It adds some extras to the challenge. But Kerberos rules for speed and safety. I remember fixing a network where NTLM caused headaches. Switched everything over. You feel the difference right away. Windows supports both seamlessly. It negotiates what fits best. I check event logs to spot issues. Helps you troubleshoot fast.

Ever notice logins slowing? Could be Kerberos tickets expiring weird. I renew them automatically. NTLM feels clunkier in those spots. Windows lets you disable NTLM if you want. I do that in fresh installs. Pushes everyone to the better option. You avoid legacy junk that way.

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