Networking – Active Directory Domain Controller with pfSense as DHCP and DNS server

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I've read some conflicting posts, so hopefully I can get a clear answer.

I have pfSense running as a DHCP server and DNS Forwarder. I'd like to try out Active Directory as a Domain Controller at home using Windows Server 2012 R2. Would I have to set up Server 2012 R2 as a DHCP/DNS server as well for AD to work properly?

Best Answer

Active Directory doesn't require DHCP, but it does require DNS. You'd need to set up some sort of DNS for it to work (Microsoft, BIND, etc). Most people use their Active Directory server as their DHCP and DNS server as well, though, as the integration of the three makes things easier.

I'd set up your server as AD/DHCP/DNS, disable the DHCP and DNS forwarding on pfSense, and tell your MS DNS server to take care of the DNS forwarding.

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