After two decades, I finally have the time to experiment with Server Core Edition while trying to set up a new domain forest. However, I've run into continuous issues! Most guides suggest "JOIN THE DOMAIN" for remote management with RSAT, but I'm attempting to create a brand new domain, not join one. I did manage to connect RSAT following this command: Set-Item WSMan:localhostClientTrustedHosts -Value -Force. I got as far as installing the AD role, but things went sideways when I couldn't configure the new domain without hitting constant errors. I'm curious if anyone else has successfully set up a completely new domain forest using Core Server. At this point, I feel like I could have just installed a full GUI version of Windows Server, set up the domain, and added a core server as a primary domain controller. It's feeling like a total waste of time to try and do it the hard way. Also, I've tried this on Server 2019, Server 2022, and Server 2026 for good measure but still faced the same challenges. Just venting my frustrations!
5 Answers
I have to agree, Server Core has its downsides. I switched back to a normal GUI server ages ago for this exact reason. Plus, some GUI paths just don't work either—Windows Server has really changed over the years, especially with more focus on Azure now.
If you're not working in a massive hyperscale environment, I'd honestly recommend just going with a GUI installation, especially for troubleshooting. It makes life so much easier to manage.
You really just need to use PowerShell to setup everything, it’s straightforward if you know the commands. This is nothing you can’t handle quickly once you get the hang of it!
Honestly, when Core first came out, the ability to switch from GUI to Core back and forth was a winning feature. Now that they've removed it, it can feel like more hassle than it's worth! Being stuck in a data center after hours handling everything through PowerShell isn't anyone's idea of fun.
True! I hadn’t thought about that. Thanks for the heads up!
You just need to set it up locally with PowerShell when you're on Server Core! Run these commands: Install-WindowsFeature AD-Domain-Services -IncludeManagementTools, then Import-Module ADDSDeployment and execute Install-ADDSForest with your domain details. It really shouldn't take more than 10 minutes to create a Domain Controller this way!
Yeah, maybe the drinks are giving you some trouble, buddy!
Yeah, without an existing domain, you're in for a tough time with authentication issues.