System Installation and Configuration

Setting up computers, servers, and networks so they work properly and meet our needs.

By Sithuw | Feb 20, 2025 | 2 min read
Serious ethnic field engineer examining hardware and working on laptop
Image by : Field Engineer on Pexels.

This article is a continuation of "The Basic Tasks of IT System Administrator," aimed at helping new system administrators gain experience in system installation and configuration.


To build your skills, practice installing server environments on virtual machines, specifically Windows Server and Linux Server. Focus on testing the following services in your virtual machines:


  • Active Directory Domain Services (AD DS)
  • Domain Name System (DNS)
  • Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP)
  • Database Server
  • Internet Information Services (IIS) Server
  • Web Server and Database Server on Linux

You can find step-by-step installation and configuration guides, complete with images, on the Server World Website.

I will provide additional resources on my website when possible.


For workstation installation, you can use a virtual machine or your personal computer; testing on your PC is recommended.In your workstation environment, you also need to test joining your workstation to the domain controller you created in the virtual machine (AD DS server). Additionally, request DHCP and DNS services.


For network configuration, the Cisco Packet Tracer application is sufficient for testing configurations with one router and several switches. For example, you can create VLANs and configure ports to carry multiple VLANs or a single VLAN.


To download the Packet Tracer application, access it through the course titled 'Getting Started with Cisco Packet Tracer.'


As you progress in your IT career, seek additional resources and training opportunities to further develop your skills. The field of system administration is constantly evolving, and staying informed will help you succeed in your role.


For more information on best practices and resources for system administration, visit my Articles Page. Stay updated with the latest tutorials to enhance your IT skills.

If you have questions or need further assistance, please contact me via email . Thank you for reading, and best of luck on your journey as a system administrator!