Step-by-Step Guide to Installing Active Directory on Windows Server 2019

Active Directory (AD) is a directory service that allows administrators to manage and organize computers, users, and resources in a network. Installing Active Directory on Windows Server 2019 is an essential step for managing user identities and access control in a domain environment.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps of installing Active Directory Domain Services (AD DS) on Windows Server 2019

• Windows Server 2019 Installation: Ensure that you have Windows Server 2019 installed and fully updated.

• Static IP Address: Set a static IP address for your server to avoid changes in IP that could affect the domain controller.

• Administrator Account: Ensure you are logged in with an administrator account.

• Server Role Requirements: The server must be configured for Active Directory, so it’s important to install the necessary features first.

1. Click on the Start Menu and open Server Manager. This is the central management console for Windows Server.
2. If Server Manager is not open, you can access it by searching for “Server Manager” from the Start Menu.

Add the Active Directory Domain Services Role

1. In the Server Manager window, click on Add roles and features.
2. The Add Roles and Features Wizard will open. Click Next to proceed.
3. On the Select Installation Type screen, choose Role-based or feature-based installation and click Next.
4. On the Select Destination Server screen, choose your server and click Next.
5. In the Select Server Roles window, scroll down and check the box next to Active Directory Domain Services.
6. A dialog box will appear, asking if you want to add required features. Click Add Features.
7. Click Next and continue through the wizard until you reach the Confirmation screen.
8. Click Install to install the AD DS role. The installation process will begin, and once completed, you’ll see a success message.