How to enable ADUC in Windows Server 2022

Efficient management of network resources is pivotal for any organization’s success. Active Directory Users and Computers (ADUC) in Windows Server 2022 is a powerful tool that helps administrators manage users, computers, and other domain resources seamlessly. In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to enable ADUC, ensuring you’re fully equipped to manage your network environment.

Preparing for ADUC

Before you begin, ensure that:

• You have Windows Server 2022 installed.
• You are logged in with an administrator account.
• Your server is connected to the network and properly updated.

Step 1: Installing the Active Directory Domain Services Role

The first step is installing the Active Directory Domain Services (AD DS) role:

1. Open the Server Manager dashboard.
   
   
2. Click on Add roles and features.
   
   
3. Follow the wizard until you reach the Roles section. Check the box next to Active Directory Domain Services and click Next.
   
   
   
   Click Add Features when prompted.
   
   
4. Confirm your selections and click Install.
   
   

Step 2: Promoting the Server to a Domain Controller

After installing AD DS, promote your server to a Domain Controller:

1. Click the notification flag in Server Manager and select Promote this server to a domain controller.
   
   
2. Choose Add a new forest and enter your desired domain name.
   
   
3. Follow the prompts to:
   • Set domain controller options
   • Create a DSRM (Directory Services Restore Mode) password
   • Complete the configuration wizard
     
     

Finally, click Install to promote your server.

Step 3: Accessing Active Directory Users and Computers

Once promotion is complete:

1. Open Server Manager.
2. Click Tools in the top-right menu.
3. Select Active Directory Users and Computers.
   
   

You are now ready to manage users, computers, and groups within your domain!

Navigating ADUC

The ADUC console is organized into logical containers:

• Organizational Units (OUs) for grouping users, computers, and groups
• Users container for managing user accounts
• Computers container for managing workstations and servers

Creating Users and Computers in ADUC

Here’s how you can quickly add objects:

• To add a user: Right-click an OU → select New > User → Fill in user details → Click Finish.
• To add a computer: Right-click an OU → select New > Computer → Fill in computer name.

Best Practices When Using ADUC

• Enforce Strong Password Policies: Use Group Policy to set strong password rules.
• Use Organizational Units (OUs): Structure your domain with OUs based on department or location for easier management.
• Regular Backups: Ensure that your Active Directory is backed up regularly using Windows Server Backup.

Enabling Advanced Features in ADUC

Unlock more ADUC options:

• Open ADUC.
• Click View in the menu bar.
• Select Advanced Features.

This provides access to additional object properties, such as security permissions and attribute editing.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you will have successfully installed and enabled Active Directory Users and Computers (ADUC) on Windows Server 2022. Efficient management of your domain is now at your fingertips, empowering you to maintain security, organize resources, and streamline IT operations.

Explore more helpful guides:

• How to Install Windows Server 2022
• Windows Server 2022 Hardening Checklist

Reference:

• Microsoft Official AD DS Overview