DNS configuration step by step

 

5.1.  What is a DNS server

    

Domain:-

A logical grouping of networked computers in which one or more of the computers has shared resources, such as a shared folder or printer and in which all of the computers share a common

Active Directory. Each domain has a unique name.

 

Domain Name System (DNS):-

Is the name resolution protocol for TCP/IP networks, such as the Internet. Client computers query a DNS server to resolve memorable, alphanumeric DNS names to the IP addresses that computers use to communicate with each other.

DNS is a hierarchical caching directory keyed by name, with an extensible set of attributes which are associated with names.

 

5.2.    Benefits of Active Directory (AD):-

Basically, Active Directory improves upon the domain-based architecture of Windows NT to provide a directory service that is better suited to todays distributed networks. AD acts as the central authority for network security as well as the integration point for bringing diverse systems together. AD consolidates management tasks into a single set of Windows-based management tools, greatly reducing the management overhead inherent in many enterprise network operating systems.

Active Directory provides a single point of management for Windows-based user accounts, clients, services, and applications. Its hierarchical nature allows network resources to be organized in a natural, intuitive nature. Because it is based upon industry-standard protocols, it can help integrate diverse (non-Microsoft) operating systems and applications into a cohesive whole, bringing management of those resources into a centrally controlled environment with a single set of management tools.

 

5.3. Let’s Make a DNS SERVER:-

First Install Server Window on your PC (2000 or 2003 server)

Open Start and Run Type dcpromo

You will now see an Active Directory Installation Wizard pop up

Click next to continue

click next again to continue and select the following configuration

 

Next we have to give it a DNS name

Then the Netbios name

And then it’ll prompt for the database and log folder, go with the defaults as below

if you get a DNS diagnostic Failed error simply choose to ‘install and configure the DNS

Set your permissions as above

Then enter a password for restore mode!

Review the actions performed

Click next and it will configure your server

you may be prompted to insert the Windows 2003 Server CD

if you  have a network cards installed and setup yo receive its IP from another DHCP server (a router for example) then you may get an error like this

I chose Local area connection, then properties, then TCP/IP properties and manually added the following:-

Manually configure the network cards TCP/IP properties for 192.168.3.1

I  then clicked on OK *(three times)

If you get a message about it using the local host  ip  for DNS then click OK.

At this point the wizard may appear to be hanging, but it is just be patient and wait until it completes (can take 15 minutes or so)

When it’s finished you’ll see this

After clicking finish you’ll be asked to restart.

After the reboot you should see this

 

 Click Finish and your DNS server are ready to use