How to Join a Windows Server to an Existing Active Directory Domain (Step-by-Step Guide)
One of the significant events of the growth and development of the local network is the emergence of a new server. Consider how to add a new server to an existing Windows domain.
Active Directory Domain Services is a Microsoft directory service implementation that provides centralized authorization and authentication services. Active Directory Domain Services on Windows Server is an advanced directory service designed for centralized data storage and security management. The tasks of “security” include managing computers, users and their groups, providing secure and centralized access to network resources. AD DS is used for LAN organization.
Before starting the setup
For the normal functioning of the network and AD, in particular, it is necessary to create servers and domain controllers. To do this, at the stage of ordering VDS, in the control panel, in your account, check the box “Run Windows system preparation”.
At the end of the server formation process, it is necessary to combine all the machines into one private network. As a result of these actions, the servers will receive additional network adapters and local IP addresses.
The domain controller must first be configured and the user created.
Configure the network adapter.
We connect to the server via RDP.
Open the network settings. Select “IP version 4”.
We indicate, as the primary DNS server, the server address with the domain controller. Press the button “OK”.
Add the server to the domain
To add a server to the domain, open the system properties. To do this, open Control Panel → System and Security → System (Or, right-click on the “This Computer” icon, select “Properties” in the context menu).
In the window that opens, click on the link “Change parameters”.
In the window that appears, specify the server description and click the “Change” button to change the workgroup to the domain.
We click on the switch that this computer is a member of the domain and specify the domain name.
Also, enter a friendly computer name.
To save the settings, click on the button “OK”.
The system will ask you to enter user data so that you can connect to the domain.
In case the user data is correct, a system notification will appear.
And also a notification appears about the need to restart the server.
The system will remind you of the need to reboot again.
And will offer to make a decision. If there are no urgent tasks, then we reboot the server.
Connection to the server
We try to connect using the RDP protocol with the credentials of the created user, through the “@” (“dog”) icon, we indicate the domain.
If the connection is successful, then the server in the domain has been added correctly.
Although Windows recommends that you keep the Firewall turned on for all networks, we recommend that you disable it for both domain and private networks to avoid unpredictable behaviour. For a public network, however, we recommend that you leave it turned on.
Conclusion
Joining a server to an existing Windows domain is a fundamental task in building and scaling a centralized IT infrastructure. By integrating a server into Active Directory Domain Services, administrators gain centralized authentication, policy enforcement, and simplified management of users and resources.
In this guide, we walked through the full process of preparing the network, configuring DNS settings, joining the server to the domain, and verifying access using domain credentials. Correct DNS configuration and proper permissions are critical to ensuring a smooth domain join process.
Once the server is successfully added, it can be managed centrally, secured using Group Policies, and integrated into existing enterprise workflows, making it an essential step for any growing Windows-based network.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
- 1. What is a Windows domain, and why should I add a server to it?
A Windows domain is a network structure managed by Active Directory Domain Services (AD DS), which centralizes authentication, authorization, and security for all computers and users. Adding a server to the domain allows it to access shared resources, follow security policies, and be managed centrally. - 2. Can I add a server to a domain without a domain controller?
No. A domain controller must be configured first because it handles user authentication and enforces domain policies. - 3. How do I configure the server’s network before joining the domain?
Ensure the server is part of the private network, assign a local IP address, and set the primary DNS to the domain controller’s IP address. - 4. What credentials are required to join a server to the domain?
You need a user account that has permission to add computers to the domain, usually an administrative account created on the domain controller. - 5. Do I need to restart the server after joining the domain?
Yes. Windows will prompt for a reboot after joining the domain to apply all settings correctly. - 6. Can I connect to the newly added server immediately?
After restarting, you can connect via RDP using the domain user credentials. Make sure to include the domain name when logging in. - 7. Should I keep the Windows Firewall on after joining the domain?
It’s recommended to keep the firewall enabled for public networks. For private and domain networks, you can disable it to avoid connectivity issues, but only if the network is secure.