How to set up a Windows Server with Active Directory, DNS, DHCP, and Domain Controller.

Introduction

This tutorial guides you through the process of setting up a Windows Server with essential services like Active Directory, DNS, DHCP, and configuring it as a Domain Controller. This setup is vital for managing networks and users efficiently in a business environment.

Step 1: Installation Process

1. Download Windows Server: Visit the Microsoft website to download the Windows Server trial version.

   • Windows Server Download

2. Install Windows Server:

   • Boot from the installation media.
   • Follow the on-screen prompts to select your language, time, and keyboard preferences.
   • Click on "Install Now."
   • Choose the appropriate version (Standard or Datacenter) based on your requirements.
   • Accept the license terms and select "Custom Installation" to install a new copy.

3. Partition Disk: Allocate disk space as needed and proceed with the installation.

4. Complete Installation: Wait for the installation to finish and set up the initial configuration.

Step 2: Setup Account and Password

1. Administrator Account:

   • Once installation is complete, you'll be prompted to set an Administrator password.
   • Choose a strong password that meets the complexity requirements.

2. Log In: Use the Administrator account and the password you just set to log in to your server.

Step 3: Network Configuration and Static IP Address

1. Access Network Settings:

   • Right-click on the network icon in the system tray and select "Open Network & Internet settings."
   • Go to "Ethernet" and click on your network connection.

2. Set Static IP:

   • Click on "Properties."
   • Select "Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4)" and click "Properties."
   • Choose "Use the following IP address" and fill in the following:
     • IP Address: (e.g., 192.168.1.10)
     • Subnet Mask: (e.g., 255.255.255.0)
     • Default Gateway: (e.g., 192.168.1.1)
   • Enter the Preferred and Alternate DNS server addresses.
   • Click "OK" to save the settings.

Step 4: Configure Domain Controller, Active Directory, DNS, and DHCP

1. Install Active Directory Domain Services (AD DS):

   • Open Server Manager and click on "Add roles and features."
   • Select "Role-based or feature-based installation."
   • Choose your server and select "Active Directory Domain Services."
   • Follow the prompts to install.

2. Promote the Server to a Domain Controller:

   • After installation, go back to Server Manager and click on the notification flag.
   • Choose "Promote this server to a domain controller."
   • Select "Add a new forest" and provide a domain name (e.g., example.local).
   • Configure the Domain Controller options and set a Directory Services Restore Mode (DSRM) password.
   • Complete the wizard and allow the server to restart.

3. Install DNS Role: This is typically installed automatically with AD DS. Verify under Server Manager > Roles.

4. Configure DHCP:

   • Go to "Add roles and features" and select the DHCP Server role.
   • Follow the prompts to install DHCP.
   • After installation, configure a new DHCP scope:
     • Define the IP address range, subnet mask, and lease duration.
     • Activate the DHCP scope.

Step 5: Restart Server and Finalize Setup

1. Restart the Server: This is crucial to apply all changes.
2. Verify Configuration:
   • Log in again using the Domain Administrator credentials.
   • Check if Active Directory, DNS, and DHCP services are running smoothly.

Conclusion

You have successfully set up a Windows Server with Active Directory, DNS, DHCP, and configured it as a Domain Controller. This foundational setup will allow you to manage users and devices effectively within your network. For further enhancements, consider exploring Group Policy configurations and user accounts management.