Step 2 — Install Active Directory Domain Services
In this step, you will install the . You are not creating a yet — that happens in the next step.
What’s happening in this step
You are installing the AD DS binaries and management tools. No domain, , configuration, or authentication changes occur yet.
1. Connect to the Server
- Use Remote Desktop (RDP) to connect to the server
- Log in with the local administrator account you created earlier
2. Open Server Manager
- should open automatically after login
- If not, open it from the Start Menu
3. Add Roles and Features
- Select Add Roles and Features
- On the Before you begin screen, select Next
- Select Role-based or feature-based installation
- Select the local server (default)
4. Server Roles
- Check Active Directory Domain Services
- When prompted, select Add Features
No additional roles are required at this stage.
5. Features
- Leave all features at their default selections
6. AD DS Information
- Review the information page
- Select Next
7. Confirmation
- Confirm the role selection
- Select Install
Wait for the installation to complete. The server does not need to reboot yet.
8. Important Notes
- Do not click Promote this server to a domain controller yet
- Do not create a domain or forest in this step
- No domain name or DSRM password is set here
You will promote the server and create the domain in the next step.
Checkpoint
0 of 3 verifiedCheck each item after verifying it in your environment.
Saved on this device. Self-checks do not award XP or replace the quiz.
If you see the promotion option, you’re ready for the next step.