This guide teaches you how to install Active Directory on a Windows 10 PC. To successfully install Active Directory, you must be using Windows 10 Professional or Enterprise.
Before you start: Ensure you are using Windows 10 Professional or Enterprise and have administrative privileges.
Warning: Active Directory does not come with Windows 10 by default, so ensure you download it securely from the official Microsoft website.
How to install Active Directory on a Windows 10 PC
Follow these steps carefully to install Active Directory and enable it on your system.
- Go to https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/download/details.aspx?id=45520 in a web browser. Active Directory is not available by default on Windows 10.
- If you’re not using Windows 10 Professional or Enterprise, the installation will not work.
- Click Download. It’s the red button; you may need to scroll down to find it.
- Click the empty box next to File Name. This selects all of the files in the list.
- Click Next.
- Download all 4 files to your computer. Click Save for each of the files as directed.
- Open your Downloads folder. You can find it in This PC or on your desktop.
- Install all 4 files. Double-click the first file and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation. Repeat this for the other downloaded files.
- Open the Control Panel. Type control panel into the search bar, then click on Control Panel in the search results.
- Click Programs.
- Click Turn Windows features on or off. A dialog box will appear.
- Scroll down and click the + next to Remote Server Administration Tools. A list of tools will expand.
- Click the + next to Role Administration Tools.
- Check the box next to AD DS Tools. Windows will install some files and prompt you to restart your computer.
- Click Restart now. Your computer will turn off and back on. Once rebooted, Active Directory tools will be accessible through the Windows Administrative Tools in the Start menu.
Pro tip: Always keep your Operating System and installed tools updated for security and compatibility reasons to ensure smooth functioning of Active Directory.
To effectively manage your network, understanding Active Directory is crucial. It provides the tools necessary for user account management, security, and access control. Once you have installed Active Directory, explore its built-in features to organize users, computers, and resources efficiently. This not only enhances productivity but also strengthens your network’s security framework, making it vital for managing larger systems.
