> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://ajmal-anwar.gitbook.io/zyberspace-by-ajmal/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://ajmal-anwar.gitbook.io/zyberspace-by-ajmal/zyberlab/01-lab-setup/windows-server-vm.md).

# Create the Windows Server VM for DC01

This virtual machine will later become the first Active Directory domain controller in ZyberLab.

At this stage, we are only creating a clean Windows Server installation.

## Objective

Create a Windows Server VM named `DC01`, complete the operating-system installation, and take a clean snapshot.

## Suggested VM Settings

| Setting  | Suggested Value                    |
| -------- | ---------------------------------- |
| VM name  | `DC01`                             |
| CPU      | 2 vCPU                             |
| Memory   | 4–6 GB                             |
| Disk     | 60 GB                              |
| Network  | NAT for the initial beginner setup |
| Firmware | Default recommended by VMware      |

The values can be adjusted if required by the Windows Server version you are using.

## Create the VM

1. Open VMware Workstation.
2. Select **Create a New Virtual Machine**.
3. Choose the standard or typical configuration.
4. Select the Windows Server installation ISO.
5. Choose the matching Windows Server version when prompted.
6. Name the virtual machine:

```
DC01
```

7. Choose the VM storage location.
8. Configure approximately 60 GB of virtual disk space.
9. Review the hardware settings.
10. Set memory to approximately 4–6 GB.
11. Confirm the network adapter is using NAT for now.
12. Finish creating the VM.

## Install Windows Server

1. Start `DC01`.
2. Boot from the Windows Server ISO.
3. Select the required language and keyboard settings.
4. Start the installation.
5. Choose an edition that includes the graphical desktop if you want the simplest beginner experience.
6. Select **Custom installation** when prompted for the installation type.
7. Install Windows Server to the virtual disk.
8. Allow the VM to restart.
9. Set the local Administrator password.
10. Sign in to Windows Server.

> Use a password created specifically for the lab. Do not reuse a personal or production password.

## Rename the Computer

If the operating system does not already use the desired name:

1. Open **Server Manager**.
2. Select **Local Server**.
3. Click the current computer name.
4. Open **Change**.
5. Set the computer name to:

```
DC01
```

6. Restart when requested.

## Basic Preparation

After restarting:

* confirm the system time is correct
* confirm the network adapter is connected
* run normal Windows updates if appropriate
* confirm Device Manager does not show unexpected problems
* install VMware Tools if they are not already installed

Do not install Active Directory yet. That will be a separate lab so the change is easy to understand and document.

## Find the IP Address

Open Command Prompt and run:

```
ipconfig
```

Record the IPv4 address, subnet mask, default gateway, and DNS information in your lab notes.

## Create a Snapshot

When the clean installation is working correctly, create a VMware snapshot named:

```
DC01 - Clean Install
```

## Verification

The lab is complete when:

* the VM is named `DC01`
* Windows Server starts without errors
* you can sign in as the local Administrator
* the network adapter is connected
* the VM has an IP address
* VMware Tools is working
* the clean snapshot exists

## Security Relevance

A domain controller becomes one of the most security-sensitive systems in a Windows environment. Building it from a known clean baseline makes later changes easier to understand, validate, and troubleshoot.