How to Configure Windows Server Core with SConfig

Applies to: Windows Server 2019, 2022 and 2025 Server Core

SConfig is the console menu for common Server Core tasks including hostname, domain membership, networking, updates, Remote Desktop and activation.

This procedure is written for administrators working on a console or through an access path that will remain available during network and restart operations. If Netcloud24 manages the server, review the change with support when it affects licensing, connectivity or recovery. See networkmanager.info for managed Windows VPS and RDS CAL services in Canada.

Before you begin

• Use console access or an out-of-band management session.
• Know the approved hostname, IP settings, DNS servers, domain and time zone.
• Have credentials for domain operations if the server will be joined.
• Plan for restarts after hostname or domain changes.

Procedure

Step 1: Start SConfig

Run the tool from an elevated console if it is not already displayed.

SConfig

Step 2: Configure the computer name

Choose the Computer Name option, enter the approved hostname and restart when prompted.

Step 3: Set networking

Choose Network Settings, select the correct adapter and configure static addressing and DNS only from the approved network plan.

Step 4: Configure updates and time

Review Microsoft Update settings, install approved updates and set the correct time zone.

Step 5: Enable only required remote access

Configure Remote Management and Remote Desktop according to the security design. Restrict network exposure with firewall or VPN controls.

Verify the result

Exit to PowerShell and confirm identity, networking, time and WinRM status.

hostname
Get-NetIPConfiguration
Get-TimeZone
Test-WSMan localhost

Rollback or recovery

Reopen SConfig to reverse a configurable setting. For network errors, use console access to restore the previous IP address, gateway and DNS values.

Version notes

Beginning with Windows Server 2022 Core, SConfig launches automatically after sign-in unless its auto-launch behaviour is disabled.

Operational checklist

• Record the change, administrator and maintenance window.
• Confirm monitoring and backups after any restart.
• Test the service from a representative client, not only from the server console.
• Remove temporary firewall rules, accounts or installation media.

Need a managed Windows Server?

Netcloud24 provides managed Windows VPS plans with Windows Server Standard, RDS User CAL options, daily backups and Canadian support. Review current configurations at https://networkmanager.info/.

Official Microsoft references

• Windows Server documentation
• Server Core documentation
• Windows Server release information