How to Configure IP and Rename Your Windows Server Core

One of the first tasks after installing Windows Server Core is configuring its network settings and giving it a proper name. Since there's no graphical interface, we rely on the built-in SConfig utility—the Server Configuration tool.

Here is a simple, step-by-step guide to configuring your Server Core's static IP address and hostname.

Step 1: Accessing the SConfig Utility

When you log into your Server Core installation, you will be presented with a command prompt. The fastest way to manage your server is to launch the configuration tool:

• Type sconfig and press Enter.

• The Server Configuration menu will appear with numbered options.

Step 2: Configuring Network Settings (IP Address)

We'll start by setting up a static IP address for reliable network communication.

• From the SConfig menu, type 8 (for Network Settings) and press Enter.

• You will see a list of your network adapters. Note the Index Number of the adapter you want to configure.

• Type the corresponding Index Number (e.g., 1 or 2) and press Enter.

• Next, type 1 to select Set Network Adapter Address.

• You will be prompted to choose between D (DHCP) or S (Static). Type S to choose Static and press Enter.

• The tool will now ask for the network details, one by one:

• Enter the desired IP Address and press Enter.

• Enter the Subnet Mask and press Enter.

• Enter the Default Gateway and press Enter.

Your basic network settings are now configured.

Step 3: Configuring DNS Servers

Since we set a static IP, we need to manually define the DNS servers as well.

• With the adapter still selected, type 2 to select Set DNS Servers.

• Enter the Preferred DNS Server (e.g., 8.8.8.8) and press Enter.

• Enter the Alternate DNS Server (e.g., 8.8.4.4) and press Enter.

Step 4: Renaming the Computer

The default computer name is usually a long, randomized string. Let's change it to something more meaningful.

• Type 4 to return to the Main Menu.

• From the main SConfig menu, type 2 (for Computer Name) and press Enter.

• Type the New Computer Name (e.g., SRV-ALI-01) and press Enter.

• The system will prompt you that a restart is required for the name change to take effect. Select Yes and the server will reboot.

Once the server restarts, log back in, run sconfig, and you'll see your newly configured IP address and server name. Process complete!

This SConfig process makes essential Server Core setup surprisingly straightforward, allowing you to quickly move on to installing your desired server roles.

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