Installing a new forest and domain controller

Before, or during, the configuration of a new forest or an additional domain controller, you need to answer the following questions:

• Do you want to install a new forest, a new tree, or an additional domain controller?
• What is the FQDN of the domain?
• Which domain and forest functional level do you need?
• Do you want to install DNS on the domain controller?
• Does the domain controller host the global catalog?
• Do you want to install RODC?
• What will the Directory Service Restore Mode (DSRM) password be?
• What is the name of NetBIOS?
• Where will the AD DS database, logs, and SYSVOL be stored?

Once you have the answers to these questions, you can start by configuring new forests or additional domain controllers. The whole process can be done through a GUI wizard or PowerShell. Both approaches will be covered in this chapter.