The role of a Windows Server administrator (or in the broader context, a Windows Server professional) involves managing and configuring Windows Server environments. Here’s a breakdown of key tasks related to this field:
1. Server Installation and Configuration
- Initial Setup: Install and configure Windows Server OS (e.g., Windows Server 2019 or 2022) on physical or virtual machines.
- Role & Features: Installing roles like Active Directory Domain Services (ADDS), DNS, DHCP, File and Storage Services, etc.
- Server Core vs. GUI: Deciding between a minimal Server Core installation or a full graphical user interface (GUI) installation based on requirements.
2. Active Directory Management
- Domain Controllers: Setting up and maintaining domain controllers to manage authentication and directory services.
- Users, Groups, and OUs: Creating and managing users, groups, and Organizational Units (OUs) for logical structure.
- Group Policies: Designing and applying Group Policy Objects (GPOs) to control user environments and security settings.
3. Networking Services
- DNS & DHCP: Configure DNS to resolve domain names to IP addresses and manage DHCP for IP allocation.
- Network Access Protection (NAP): Set up policies for network health checks and security compliance.
- VPN & DirectAccess: Establish secure remote access for users through VPN or DirectAccess.
4. File and Storage Management
- File Server: Configure file sharing, permissions (NTFS and Share permissions), and Distributed File System (DFS).
- Storage Spaces: Use Storage Spaces for disk management, fault tolerance, and high availability.
- Backup and Recovery: Set up Windows Server Backup, Volume Shadow Copy, and Disaster Recovery procedures.
5. Security and Patch Management
- Firewalls and Security Policies: Configure Windows Firewall, audit policies, and security baselines.
- WSUS: Use Windows Server Update Services (WSUS) to manage updates and patches across multiple servers.
- Endpoint Protection: Deploy Windows Defender or third-party solutions for malware protection.
6. Virtualization with Hyper-V
- Virtual Machines (VMs): Install and manage VMs using Hyper-V, configure networking, and storage for VMs.
- Containers: Implement Windows Containers for lightweight application isolation.
- Clustered Virtualization: Set up failover clustering for high availability of virtualized workloads.
7. High Availability and Disaster Recovery
- Failover Clustering: Configuring clusters to ensure high availability for critical applications and services.
- Load Balancing: Implementing network load balancing (NLB) for distributing workloads.
- Backup Solutions: Regular backups and planning for disaster recovery using tools like System Center Data Protection Manager (DPM).
8. Monitoring and Performance Tuning
- Performance Monitoring: Use tools like Performance Monitor, Task Manager, and Resource Monitor to track CPU, RAM, and disk usage.
- Event Logs: Monitoring Event Viewer for server health and security issues.
- System Center Operations Manager (SCOM): Enterprise-level monitoring and alerting for complex environments.
9. Automation with PowerShell
- Scripting: Automate routine tasks using PowerShell scripts, such as creating users, managing services, or configuring server settings.
- Remote Management: Use PowerShell remoting for server management without logging in locally.
10. Cloud Integration (Hybrid Infrastructure)
- Azure Active Directory: Integrate on-premises AD with Azure AD for hybrid identity management.
- Azure Backup and Site Recovery: Configure cloud-based backup and disaster recovery solutions.
- Windows Admin Center: Manage servers on-premises and in the cloud from a single console.
These tasks define the job of a Windows Server professional, covering both foundational and advanced aspects of the role.