What is required to join computers to the active directory domain?

Joining computers to an Active Directory domain indeed requires specific system configuration. This is because the operating system on the computer must be correctly configured to recognize and communicate with the Active Directory. This involves ensuring that the computer settings, such as the DNS configuration, point to the appropriate Domain Name System (DNS) servers that can resolve the domain controller's address.

In addition, the settings must enable the computer to connect to the domain and accept domain policies, ensuring it aligns with the domain's security and access controls. The computer’s network adapter also needs to be appropriately configured to allow for these communications over the network.

While other factors like network configuration or access to the domain controller play roles in the process, the foundational aspect often lies in ensuring that the system itself is configured to facilitate this connection to the Active Directory. This systematic alignment is crucial for successful domain joining.