Under normal operation, how often does a domain controller perform replication?

A domain controller typically performs replication every 15 minutes under normal operational circumstances. This frequency allows for timely synchronization of directory information across domain controllers within the same domain or across multiple domains in a forest. Efficient replication is critical for ensuring that all domain controllers have up-to-date information, which is essential for user authentication, access control, and overall network functionality.

The 15-minute interval reflects a balance between network load and the need for up-to-date directory data. Replication occurs more frequently than some other intervals offered in the choices, allowing administrators to respond quickly to changes in the environment, such as new accounts being created or existing accounts being modified or deleted.