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Deploy a New Active Directory Forest

In this hands-on lab, we will learn how to create a new Active Directory Domain Services Forest in two different ways. First, we will use the Domain Desktop Experience. We will then learn how to complete the same steps using Server Core.

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Path Info

Level
Clock icon Intermediate
Duration
Clock icon 45m
Last updated
Clock icon Aug 31, 2025

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Table of Contents

  1. Challenge

    Install the Active Directory Domain Service Server Role Using Server Manager

    1. Log in to the de-vm virtual machine via RDP using the Public IP as the connection name.
    2. Install the Active Directory Domain Service Server Role in Server Manager.

  2. Challenge

    Promote Server to a Domain Controller in a New Forest

    1. Promote Server to a Domain Controller in a New Forest:
      1. Add a new forest with Root Domain Name: Corp.SandyNetworking01.com.
      2. NetBIOS domain name: CORP.
      3. Default database locations are fine.

  3. Challenge

    Prepare and Install a New Forest Using Windows Server Core

    1. Log in to the ps-vm virtual machine via RDP using the public IP as the connection name.
    2. Access Windows PowerShell.
    3. Install windows feature AD-domain-services.
    4. Import the ADDSDeployment Module.
    5. Install a new forest for the Domain Name Corp.SandyNetworking02.com (We are using 02 since we already created 01 in the first install method.)
    6. Make sure to Install a new DNS server during the forest installation process.
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Pluralsight Skills

Pluralsight Skills gives leaders confidence they have the skills needed to execute technology strategy. Technology teams can benchmark expertise across roles, speed up release cycles and build reliable, secure products. By leveraging our expert content, skill assessments and one-of-a-kind analytics, keep up with the pace of change, put the right people on the right projects and boost productivity. It's the most effective path to developing tech skills at scale.

What's a lab?

Hands-on Labs are real environments created by industry experts to help you learn. These environments help you gain knowledge and experience, practice without compromising your system, test without risk, destroy without fear, and let you learn from your mistakes. Hands-on Labs: practice your skills before delivering in the real world.

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We will provide the credentials and environment necessary for you to practice right within your browser.

Guided walkthrough

Follow along with the author’s guided walkthrough and build something new in your provided environment!

Did you know?

On average, you retain 75% more of your learning if you get time for practice.
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