Configuring User Rights and Monitoring File Servers in Windows Server 2025

1. Configuring User Rights

User rights can be configured using gpedit.msc, Local Security Policy, or Default Domain Policy. Navigate to Computer Configuration | Windows Settings | Security Settings | Policies | User Rights Assignment. These settings define which users can log in locally, access the network, or manage system services.

2. Distinction Between User Rights and Permissions

User Rights govern system-wide actions (e.g., shutting down the server), while Permissions control access to specific resources like files and folders. Configuring both correctly ensures security and efficiency.

3. Monitoring File Server Activities

Auditing tracks file access, modifications, and deletions. Configure auditing via gpedit.msc, Local Security Policy, or Default Domain Policy under Computer Configuration | Windows Settings | Security Settings | Local Policies | Audit Policy. This provides detailed logs for compliance and security.

4. Chapter Exercise – Installing IIS and PDS Roles

This exercise involves two tasks:

• Installing IIS: Enables hosting of websites and web applications.
• Installing PDS: Centralizes printer and document management.

5. Steps to Install IIS

1. Open Server Manager.
2. Select Add Roles and Features.
3. Choose Role-based or feature-based installation.
4. Select the server from the server pool.
5. Check Web Server (IIS).
6. Add required features and click Next.
7. Review notes and click Install.
8. Click Close after installation.

6. Steps to Install PDS

1. Open Server Manager.
2. Select Add Roles and Features.
3. Choose Role-based or feature-based installation.
4. Select the server from the server pool.
5. Check Print and Document Services.
6. Add required features and click Next.
7. Review notes and click Install.
8. Click Close after installation.

Conclusion

Configuring User Rights and Permissions alongside auditing ensures secure and efficient server operations. Installing IIS and PDS roles further enhances server capabilities, enabling robust web hosting and centralized print management in Windows Server 2025.