SETUP WINDOWS SERVER 2012 R2 AND WINDOWS 10 AS CLIENT CSS 2023

Introduction

This tutorial provides a step-by-step guide on setting up Windows Server 2012 R2 and Windows 10 as a client. This setup is essential for creating a network environment where Windows 10 can communicate with the server for various services, such as file sharing and domain management. Following these steps will help you create a robust server-client architecture suitable for small to medium-sized business environments.

Step 1: Prepare Your Environment

Before you begin the setup, ensure you have the following:

• A physical or virtual machine for Windows Server 2012 R2.
• A physical or virtual machine for Windows 10.
• Installation media for both Windows Server 2012 R2 and Windows 10.
• A stable network connection.

Tips

• Use VirtualBox or VMware for creating virtual machines if you don’t have physical machines.
• Ensure your hardware meets the system requirements for both operating systems.

Step 2: Install Windows Server 2012 R2

1. Insert the Windows Server 2012 R2 installation media into the server.
2. Boot the server from the installation media.
3. Follow these prompts:
   • Select your language, time, and keyboard preferences.
   • Click on "Install now."
   • Choose the edition of Windows Server you wish to install (Standard or Datacenter).
   • Accept the license terms.
   • Select "Custom: Install Windows only (advanced)" for a clean installation.
4. Choose the disk where you want to install Windows Server.
5. Wait for the installation to complete, and set up the administrator credentials when prompted.

Common Pitfalls

• Ensure that the disk has enough space for the installation.
• Remember to configure the server to automatically receive updates for security.

Step 3: Configure Windows Server 2012 R2

1. After installation, log in to the server.
2. Open the Server Manager dashboard.
3. Set up the server as a domain controller:
   • Click on "Add roles and features."
   • Select "Active Directory Domain Services" and follow the prompts.
4. Promote the server to a domain controller:
   • After installation, select the option to promote this server to a domain controller.
   • Create a new domain and specify a domain name (e.g., mydomain.local).
   • Configure the Directory Services Restore Mode (DSRM) password.
5. Restart the server to apply changes.

Practical Advice

• Choose a domain name that’s unique and not already in use.
• Keep a record of your DSRM password as it’s essential for recovery.

Step 4: Install Windows 10 on the Client Machine

1. Insert the Windows 10 installation media into the client computer.
2. Boot from the installation media.
3. Follow the instructions:
   • Select your language and other preferences.
   • Click "Install now."
   • Choose the type of installation (Upgrade or Custom).
4. Accept the license terms and select the target drive for installation.
5. Wait for the installation to finish, then configure your user account.

Step 5: Join Windows 10 to the Domain

1. Log in to your Windows 10 machine.
2. Open "Settings" and go to "Accounts."
3. Select "Access work or school," then click on "Connect."
4. Choose "Join this device to a local Active Directory domain."
5. Enter the domain name created earlier (e.g., mydomain.local).
6. Provide the credentials of a user with permissions to join the domain.
7. Restart the computer when prompted.

Practical Tips

• Ensure that the Windows 10 machine is connected to the same network as the server.
• Check network settings if you encounter connectivity issues.

Conclusion

You have successfully set up Windows Server 2012 R2 and configured Windows 10 as a client within a domain environment. This setup allows for better resource management, user management, and security within your network. As the next steps, consider exploring additional server roles such as file sharing, DNS, or DHCP to enhance your network functionality.