Active Directory setup Windows Server 2019: A step-by-step guide

In this post, I will provide you with a detailed guide on how to configure Active Directory in Windows Server 2019. Active Directory is a Microsoft directory service used to manage users, groups, and resources in an enterprise network. With the following steps, you will be able to successfully deploy and configure Active Directory in your Windows Server 2019 environment.

The first step is to install Windows Server 2019 on the designated server. Follow the installation instructions provided by Microsoft to complete this process successfully.

Once Windows Server 2019 is installed, the next step is to promote the server to domain controller. This will enable Active Directory functionality. Below are the steps to follow:

• Open the "Server Manager" from the "Start" menu and select "Manage" in the upper right corner.

• In the "Manage" window, select "Add Roles and Features".

• Follow the instructions in the installation wizard and choose "Active Directory Domain Services" as the role to install.

• Configure the domain details, such as the domain name and the Directory Service Restore Mode (DSRM) password.

• Complete the installation and restart the server when prompted.

Once the server has been successfully promoted to domain controller, you can start configuring Active Directory. Follow these essential steps:

• Open the "Active Directory Administration Tool" from the "Start" menu.

• In the "Active Directory Manager", right click on the domain and select "Create a new domain".

• Choose "Create a domain in a new forest" and provide a name for the forest.

• Set the forest and domain level functionality options according to your needs.

• Review the settings and click "Next" to continue.

• Configure the DNS domain controller and make sure it is configured correctly.

• Review the configuration summary and click "Next" to start the configuration process.

Once you've completed setting up Active Directory in Windows Server 2019, you can manage users, groups, and resources on your network. Here are some common tasks you can perform:

• Creating and managing users and groups. Use the "Active Directory Administration Tool" to create user accounts and groups, assign permissions, and configure security policies.

• Group Policy Management. Use the "Group Policy Management Tool" to configure group policies that control the behavior of users and computers on the network.

• Shared resource management. Use the "Active Directory User and Computer Management" to create and manage shared resources, such as create and manage shared resources, such as folders and network drives, within Active Directory in Windows Server 2019.

Configuring Active Directory in Windows Server 2019 is essential for centrally managing users, groups, and resources in an enterprise network. Through the steps outlined above, you will be able to successfully deploy and configure Active Directory in your Windows Server 2019 environment. Make the most of this powerful management tool and improve the efficiency and security of your network. Remember that Active Directory offers numerous additional features, such as group policies and shared resource management, which you can explore and use to meet the specific needs of your organization.