Don't laugh I know this may be an elementary question.....I am upgrading from a workgroup in Server 2000 to a domain environment in Server 2003. Question: is active directory automatically implemented when you install a domain? Or is this something you need to install separately?

In order to upgrade your workgroup to a domain, you will want to Run dcpromo (ie: Start >> Run >> type in dcpromo >> hit Enter). This will begin the upgrade process. Let Windows setup your DNS while the process is happening. When finished, you will have an AD integrated domain. The AD integration is automatic and part of the promotion process.

Ummm I am using a different machine for my new server and doing a fresh install. I just want to know if you have a domain you automatically are using active directory. We only have 10 employees and I don't think we need active directory (unless you can give me reason I should implement it). My intention to is to keep it as simple as possible. FYI: This will be the only server in the network.

Ummm I am using a different machine for my new server and doing a fresh install. I just want to know if you have a domain you automatically are using active directory. We only have 10 employees and I don't think we need active directory (unless you can give me reason I should implement it). My intention to is to keep it as simple as possible. FYI: This will be the only server in the network.

if u r sure ur not going to have more than 10 computers in the future, workgroup environment is fine. just share the required folders and assign necessary permissions on them. else go for AD. Yes installing AD will create a domain and u can install it as curt said by running dcpromo from cmd after u have installed the OS