How to create a domain controller in Windows Server 2019/2016

Hello! A fundamental purpose of a server is to be able to manage the components of the organization’s domain. Consequently, it is necessary to be able to correctly configure the server to function as a domain controller. Indeed, the organization can be part of an existing domain or implement a new one. This is a fundamental task since this feature allows it to be managed through the Active Directory. In addition, the domain controller allows centralized management of items relating to users and their data. Well, in this post we will see how to create a domain controller in Windows Server 2019/2016.

Previous server settings to create a domain controller.

Before installing the domain driver, it is necessary to make some modifications to the server. This requires an administrator account. Well, in the first place it is necessary to change the name of the server. This step is not strictly necessary, but it allows you to work more comfortably. With this intention, from the Server Manager, please select the Local Server. Once there, click on the name of the computer:

In the next window, please click on the Computer Name tab. Then press Change:

Now, set the new name you want to assign for the server. Finally, press OK to save the changes.

Finally, restart the server to set the new name.

Now, it is time to modify the IP address of the server. That is, by default the system obtains the IP address automatically and dynamically. For Windows Server to work properly, the IP address must be static.

Install the Active Directory Domain Services role

Now it’s time to add the Active Directory domain service role. In addition, the administrator must have a secure password before proceeding. And that the updates of Windows Update have been installed. Then, from the Server Manager click on Add Roles and Features.

In the warning message, please click on Next.

Two configuration options are shown below. Please click on Role-based or feature-based installation:

Now select the server where the domain controller will be installed.

The following window shows the server roles available for installation. Please check the box corresponding to Active Directory Domain Services

Immediately a window will be displayed with the additional options to be installed. Please click on Add Features.

Please verify that the corresponding box is checked and press Next.

You can skip the following information by clicking on Next

Now the wizard shows brief information about Active Directory Domain Services. Press Next to continue.

Now, it is time to confirm the installation.

Installation will begin immediately. After a few minutes, the process will be successfully completed:

Promoting the server to domain controller

After the installation of the role is completed, the server manager will warn about a pending task. Indeed, clicking on the warning signal will indicate that it is necessary to promote this server to a domain controller.

Now it is time to select the deployment operation. Please add a new forest.Then enter the domain name.

In the next screen, three items need to be configured. In the first place, the level of functionality of the new forest and root domain. Then the domain controller capabilities. And finally the Directory Services password.

You can disregard the warning about DNS delegation. Since this can be solved later.

Now specify the address of the paths in the active directory. You can leave it as default, or modify it according to your preference.

Now check the installation of the server elements.

Finally, the wizard will verify the installation prerequisites.

Installation will begin immediately. After a few moments, the server will be restarted.

After the server is restarted, you will see the domain name in the login window.

Finally, you can start managing the domain controller from the server manager.

Conclusion

Ultimately we have seen how to create a domain controller in Windows Server 2019/2016. From now on the company has this tool to manage functions. Before I say goodbye I invite you to see our post about how to change the local administrator’s password in Windows Server. Bye!