Introduction to Basic Windows Server
Concepts and Vocabulary
Section 1: Warm-Up
Objective: Activate prior knowledge and introduce students to the basic concepts of
Windows Server.
1. Discussion Questions (Warm-Up Activity)
• Have you ever heard of or worked with Windows Server before?
• What is the difference between a server and a regular computer?
• Why do companies need servers?
2. Brief Overview of Concepts
Windows Server is an operating system developed by Microsoft that provides essential
services for businesses, such as file sharing, user management, and network security. It is
commonly used in corporate environments to manage networks and resources.
Key Functions of Windows Server:
• File and Storage Services: Enables centralized management of files and data.
• Active Directory (AD): Manages users, groups, and devices in a network.
• Remote Desktop Services: Allows users to remotely access a server or computer.
• DNS and DHCP Management: Simplifies network configuration and communication by
managing IP addresses and translating domain names.
Section 2: Vocabulary
• Server: A computer that provides services, data, or resources to other computers.
• Active Directory (AD): A Microsoft service for managing users, computers, and resources
in a network.
• Domain: A group of computers and devices that are managed as a single entity.
• DNS (Domain Name System): A system that translates domain names into IP addresses.
• DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol): A protocol that automatically assigns IP
addresses to devices on a network.
• Remote Desktop Services: A feature that allows users to remotely access another
computer or server.
• File and Storage Services: A feature that allows centralized management of files and data
storage.
• Group Policy: A feature used to control the working environment of user accounts and
computers.
• Virtualization: The creation of virtual machines that operate like independent physical
computers.
Section 3: Theory
1. What is Windows Server?
Windows Server is designed to provide a robust and secure platform for managing
networks, applications, and services in a corporate environment. Unlike a typical desktop
operating system, it offers advanced features such as server roles, virtualization, and
remote management.
2. Key Server Roles
• Active Directory Domain Services (AD DS): Enables the management of domains and
provides centralized user authentication.
• DNS Server Role: Resolves domain names into IP addresses to ensure smooth
communication between devices.
• DHCP Server Role: Automatically assigns IP addresses to devices, making network
management more efficient.
• File and Storage Services: Manages shared folders and drives across the network, ensuring
secure data access.
• Remote Desktop Services: Allows users to access desktops and applications hosted on a
remote server.
Section 4: Exercises
A. Vocabulary Matching
Match the term with its correct definition:
1. Server
2. Active Directory
3. DNS
4. DHCP
5. Remote Desktop Services
Definitions:
a. A protocol that assigns IP addresses automatically.
b. A system that translates domain names into IP addresses.
c. A computer providing services to other devices.
d. A Microsoft service for managing users and resources.
e. A feature for accessing another computer remotely.
B. Fill in the Blanks
Complete the sentences using the vocabulary:
1. _______ is used to manage users and computers in a network environment.
2. A _______ automatically assigns IP addresses to devices.
3. _______ translates domain names into IP addresses.
4. With _______ services, users can access a server from a different location.
5. A _______ provides shared resources such as files and printers.
C. Reading Comprehension
Read the following passage about how Windows Server works in a corporate environment
and answer the questions:
Windows Server is an essential tool for businesses that require centralized management of
their IT infrastructure. Active Directory helps administrators manage user accounts and
security across the organization. The DHCP server simplifies network administration by
automatically assigning IP addresses to devices, while DNS ensures that users can access
websites and services using easily remembered domain names instead of complex IP
addresses.
Questions:
1. What is the primary role of Active Directory?
2. How does DHCP simplify network management?
3. Why is DNS important for a network?
D. Writing Task
Write a short paragraph explaining why companies use Windows Server instead of regular
desktop computers for managing their networks.
E. Role-Play Activity
In pairs, simulate the following scenario:
- One student is an IT manager explaining the importance of Windows Server in the
company.
- The other student is a new employee asking questions about the different server roles and
their functions.
Section 5: Review and Wrap-Up
1. Quick Recap
• What is Windows Server, and what makes it different from a desktop OS?
• Name two key server roles in Windows Server.
• Explain how DHCP and DNS help in network management.
• What is Active Directory, and why is it important?
2. Final Quiz
Prepare a short quiz with 5 multiple-choice questions to test understanding of the key
concepts:
1. What is the purpose of Active Directory?
a) File storage
b) User and resource management
c) Internet browsing
d) Printing services
2. DNS translates:
a) IP addresses into domain names
b) Usernames into passwords
c) Domain names into IP addresses
d) Files into folders
3. Which protocol assigns IP addresses automatically?
a) DNS
b) DHCP
c) RDP
d) FTP
4. Remote Desktop Services allow:
a) Access to printers remotely
b) Remote access to desktops and applications
c) File sharing
d) Automatic IP assignment
5. A server is:
a) A personal computer used at home
b) A computer that provides services and resources to other devices
c) A type of printer
d) A software program for editing documents
