What Is Active Directory Users and Computers and How to Install It?

Active Directory Users and Computers (ADUC) was released with Windows 2000 Server, which is an essential Microsoft Management Console (MMC) tool. Generally, Administrations use it to manage Active Directory, working users, and organizational units. In short, it facilitates people with the easy management of their daily tasks using computer resources on the network.

This guide will show you how to install Active Directory Users and Computers, including its uses. Let's dive into the topic:

What Is Active Directory Users and Computers Used for

The Active Directory Users and Computers is a snap-in tool designed to manage domain operations and functional levels. The administrator can use this tool to perform the following tasks:

1. 1. Reset the password, move computer objects and add people to security units.
2. 2. Create and operate groups, and computers, including each user, along with their details.
3. 3. Provide other domain controllers with RID, PDC emulators, and infrastructure FSMO roles.
4. 4. Diplomat permissions according to Group Policy.
5. 5. Represent refined security and auditing in Active Directory.
6. 6. Grow the domain functional environment.
7. 7. Advanced Features settings enable AD users to manage the LostAndFound container. It also helps them to handle NTDS quota, program, and system data.
8. 8. Assist with the management of FSMO roles such as PDC Emulator, RID Master, and Infrastructure Master.

Let's see how to install Active Directory Users and computers in a Windows system.

How to Install Active Directory Users and Computers

The Active Directory Users and Computers functionality is not installed by default through the Windows installer, so you may need help finding it on your computer. The installation of Active Directory Users and Computers depends on the current Windows version under the RSAT suite management tools.

Follow the given steps to install ADUC for different Windows 10 versions.

Steps to Install ADUC for Windows 10 Version 1809 and Higher

If you want to install ADUC for Windows 10 version 1809, follow the given steps. The screens for higher versions barely differ, but the process is sufficient.

Step 1. Go to the Settings button, then click Apps.

Step 2. Select the Apps & features option. 

Step 3. Choose Optional features, and click the + (plus) sign of Add a Feature.

Step 4. Click the dialog box of Add an optional feature box and type rsat.

Step 5. Tick the checkbox of RSAT: Active Directory Domain Services and Lightweight Directory Services Tools.

Step 6. Click the Install button and wait to end the installation process.

Step 7. Close the window after installing the tool.

Step 8. Go to the Start menu, type Active, and select Active Directory Users and Computers.

Steps to Install ADUC for Windows 10 Version 1803 and Lower 

Go through the following steps if you want to install Active Directory Users and Computers in Windows 10 1803 or lower:

Step 1. Download and install the Remote Server Administration Tools  according to your Windows version:

Step 2. Go to the Start menu, and type Control Panel.

Step 3. Open the Control Panel app and select the Programs and Features option. 

Programs and Features option in Windows 10

Step 4. Click the Turn Windows features on or off option.

Step 5. Expand the Remote Server Administration Tools section, then choose Role Administration Tools. 

Step 6. Expand the AD DS and AD LDS Tools option.

Step 7. Check the AD DS Tools checkbox and Click OK.

Step 8. Close the window and open the Start menu.

Step 9. Type Administrative Tools in the Search bar and select any Active Directory tool.

Bottom Line

Active Directory Users and Computers and its configuration in different editions of Windows 10 have been comprehensively covered in this article. In addition, we also mentioned some common uses of this tool, including the management of user accounts, groups, and OUs. Provide your valuable feedback and suggestions in the comment box, and share the post if you like it.