How to Install Active Directory on Windows Server

After understanding the basics of Active Directory, the next step is to install and configure it on a Windows Server. This lesson walks you through the complete process of setting up Active Directory Domain Services (AD DS).

Prerequisites

• Windows Server 2019, 2022, or later
• Static IP address configured on the server
• Administrator privileges
• Proper DNS settings (important for AD)

Step 1: Install the AD DS Role

1. Open Server Manager
2. Click Manage → Add Roles and Features
3. Select Role-based or feature-based installation
4. Choose your server
5. Check Active Directory Domain Services
6. Click Add Features when prompted
7. Complete the installation

PowerShell Alternative:

Install-WindowsFeature -Name AD-Domain-Services -IncludeManagementTools

Step 2: Promote the Server to a Domain Controller

1. After installation, click the notification flag in Server Manager
2. Select Promote this server to a domain controller
3. Choose Add a new forest (for a new environment)
4. Enter your root domain name (example: corp.company.local)
5. Set the Directory Services Restore Mode (DSRM) password
6. Keep DNS Server option enabled
7. Review the settings and click Install

The server will automatically restart after the process is complete.

Step 3: Verify the Installation

• Open Active Directory Users and Computers (dsa.msc)
• Check that your domain appears correctly
• Verify DNS is working properly

Important Tips

• Always use a static IP address before promoting the server
• Choose a meaningful domain name (avoid using .local if possible in production)
• Deploy at least two Domain Controllers for redundancy
• Store the DSRM password securely

Once Active Directory is installed, you can start creating users, groups, and Organizational Units.