To join a computer to a domain, you'll typically modify system settings. Here's how:
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Access System Properties: There are a few ways to do this:
- Windows Key + Pause/Break: This shortcut will directly open the System window.
- Search: Type "System" in the Windows search bar and select "System (Control Panel)".
- Control Panel: Open the Control Panel (View by: Large icons or Small icons), and click on "System".
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Navigate to Computer Name Settings: In the System window, look for either "Advanced system settings" (click this if present, then go to step 3) or, on older systems, directly for the "Computer name, domain, and workgroup settings" section.
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Change Domain/Workgroup Settings:
- If you clicked "Advanced system settings", a new window will appear. Click the "Computer Name" tab.
- Click the "Change..." button. This allows you to modify the computer's name and domain/workgroup membership.
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Select "Domain" and Enter Domain Name:
- In the "Computer Name/Domain Changes" window, select the "Domain" radio button.
- Enter the full name of the domain you want to join (e.g.,
example.com).
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Provide Credentials:
- Click "OK". You will be prompted to enter the username and password of a domain user account that has the necessary permissions to add computers to the domain. This is usually a domain administrator account or an account with delegated permissions.
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Restart Your Computer:
- After successfully authenticating, you will be prompted to restart your computer. It's crucial to restart for the changes to take effect.
Important Considerations:
- Network Connectivity: Ensure your computer is connected to the network and can communicate with the domain controller. Verify DNS settings are correctly configured to point to the domain's DNS server.
- Permissions: You must have the appropriate permissions on the domain to add computers. Contact your domain administrator if you encounter issues.
- Firewall: Ensure that your firewall isn't blocking necessary communication between the computer and the domain controller.
- User Accounts: Joining a computer to a domain does not automatically migrate user profiles. Local user accounts will still exist, but you'll typically log in with a domain user account after the restart.
Troubleshooting:
- "The following error occurred attempting to join the domain...": This indicates an issue with network connectivity, credentials, or permissions. Carefully review each of these aspects.
- Check Event Logs: Review the System and Application event logs for more detailed error messages.
- DNS Resolution Issues: If you suspect DNS problems, try pinging the domain controller by its FQDN (Fully Qualified Domain Name) and IP address. If the FQDN fails to resolve, there's a DNS issue.
