SConfig (Server Configuration)

SConfig (Server Configuration) is a command-line utility tool in Windows Server that allows administrators to configure various system settings on a server. It provides a simplified interface for performing common configuration tasks and can be used to manage server settings without using the graphical user interface (GUI).

Features and Functions: SConfig provides a range of configuration options, including:

  1. Network settings: Configure the IP address, DNS server, default gateway, and other network settings.
  2. Remote Desktop settings: Enable or disable Remote Desktop, change the listening port, and configure security settings.
  3. Windows Update settings: Configure automatic updates and set the update schedule.
  4. Domain settings: Join or leave a domain, or change the domain membership settings.
  5. Security settings: Configure the Windows Firewall, enable or disable UAC, and set the password policies.
  6. Server roles and features: Install or uninstall server roles and features, including roles like DNS, DHCP, and AD DS.

Configuration: SConfig can be launched by running “sconfig” from the command prompt or PowerShell. Once launched, the utility presents a menu of configuration options that can be selected by entering the corresponding number.

For example, to configure the network settings using SConfig, follow these steps:

  1. Launch SConfig by running “sconfig” from the command prompt or PowerShell.
  2. Select option 8 (“Configure Network Settings”) from the menu and press Enter.
  3. Follow the prompts to configure the network settings, including the IP address, subnet mask, default gateway, and DNS server.

Usage Examples: Here are a few usage examples of SConfig:

  1. Joining a domain: To join a server to a domain, select option 2 (“Domain/Workgroup”) from the SConfig menu, enter the domain name, and provide the credentials of a user with permissions to join the domain.
  2. Installing a server role: To install a server role, select option 3 (“Add/Remove Roles and Features”) from the SConfig menu, select the role to be installed, and follow the prompts to complete the installation.
  3. Configuring Windows Update: To configure Windows Update settings, select option 5 (“Windows Update Settings”) from the SConfig menu, choose whether to enable automatic updates, set the update schedule, and select the option to download and install updates automatically or manually.

SConfig provides a quick and easy way to configure various system settings on a Windows Server using a command-line interface. It is a useful tool for administrators who prefer to manage server settings without using the GUI, and it can be customized to suit individual requirements.

Author: tonyhughes