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Windows Server 2019/2025 DNS Configuration Guide

Configuring Initial Server Settings

Step 1: Configure Network Settings

  1. Open Server Manager.
  2. Click Local Server.
  3. Click Ethernet and configure the IP settings manually.
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Open CMD Promt and verify the IPv4 Address

Step 2: Rename the Server

  1. In Server Manager, click Local Server.
  2. Click Computer Name > Change.
  3. Enter the new name (e.g., HOMELAB-DC).
  4. Click OK, restart the server.
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Installing and Configuring DNS Server

Step 1: Install DNS Role

  1. Open Server Manager > Click Manage > Add Roles and Features.
  2. Choose Role-based or feature-based installation.
  3. Select DNS Server and click Next.
  4. Click Install and wait for the process to complete.
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Step 2: Configure DNS Settings

  1. Open Server Manager > Click Tools > DNS.
  2. Right-click the server name and select Configure a DNS Server.
  3. Choose Create a forward lookup zone.
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End of Configuring a DNS Server.

Step 2.3 Continued...

Creating a Forward Lookup Zone

What is Forward Lookup Zone

A Forward Lookup Zone is a part of DNS that resolves hostnames to IP addresses. This is the most common DNS operation — when you type a domain name (like www.google.com), DNS translates it into an IP address (like 142.250.195.68).

Step 1: Create "HOMELAB.COM"

  1. In DNS Manager, expand the server and right-click Forward Lookup Zones.
  2. Click New Zone.
  3. Select Primary Zone and click Next.
  4. Enter HOMELAB.COM as the zone name and click Next.
  5. Select Allow only secure dynamic updates and click Next.
  6. Click Finish.
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Step 2: Add Host Records

  1. In DNS Manager, right-click the HOMELAB.COM zone.
  2. Click New Host (A or AAAA).
  3. Enter a hostname (e.g., webserver), assign an IP address.
  4. Click Add Host.
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Conclusion

You have successfully installed Windows Server 2019 and configured a DNS server for HOMELAB.COM This setup allows devices in your network to resolve hostnames efficiently. You can further enhance your setup by integrating Active Directory or additional network services.

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