4932 Synchronization of a replica of an Active Directory naming context has begun
Written when replica synchronization of an Active Directory naming context begins. It captures the start of a directory synchronization cycle between DCs.
Overview
The subcategory is Audit Directory Service Replication. It is generated when replica synchronization of a naming context (directory partition) begins. Paired with the end 4933, it bounds one synchronization cycle.
How it is triggered
- The start of periodic or request-based replication synchronization between DCs.
Security review points
- Synchronization itself is normal daily activity. Its standalone security value is low, but synchronization with an unexpected peer or frequency can be material for investigating replication abuse or a rogue DC.
- DCSync abuses a replication request to a legitimate DC and is caught by 4662, separately from these sync events. This event’s main use is understanding topology and synchronization health.
Notes for log review
- Replication auditing is a high-volume normal event. Together with the end 4933, use it to understand synchronization duration and outcome.
- It is an aid to replication-fault investigation and topology checking rather than an always-on detection target.
Key fields
| Field | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Source/destination DC | The parties to the synchronization |
Naming Context | The partition being synchronized |