8 Windows Server Interview

Questions (With Example Answers)

Indeed Editorial Team

Updated 22 January 2024

Windows server administrators are essential to the information

technology (IT) department because they install, manage and
upgrade Windows-based systems and servers. When interviewing for
a Windows server administrator position, you can expect some
technical and behavioural questions. Learning more about
frequently asked Windows server interview questions can improve
your interview performance and increase your chances of getting
hired for a desirable job. In this article, we review questions you are
likely to encounter during a Windows server interview, outline why
employers might ask them and give example answers to help you
prepare your responses.
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8 Windows Server Interview Questions

Here are some frequently asked Windows server interview
questions and their example answers:

1. What is Active Directory?

Active Directory is a key concept in Windows servers because it

helps IT professionals maintain and manage computer networks.
You can use this question to show hiring managers your practical
knowledge of using this technology. Keep your responses brief, but
highlight its functions and specifications.Example: ‘Active
Directory is a Microsoft developed technology that helps create
directory services for various computer or server network
components. Windows server administrators use Active Directory
for storing data associated with printers, network information,
computers and shared folders. The Active Directory manages this
data and provides network users and administrators access to
network resources. In my previous job, I used Active Directory to
manage the network in the Windows domain using a centralised
system of administration. The authentication process for logging in
enabled me to safely work and manage my network
safely.'Related: What Are Active Directory Management Tools?
(With Benefits)

2. What are Group Policy Objects (GPOs) and name their

different kinds?

This is one frequently asked question in Windows server interviews.

An interviewer might ask this question because the GPO represents
the setting that controls the work environment of users and
computer accounts. When answering this question, clearly explain
what it means and briefly describe its three types.Example: ‘Group
Policy Objects is a collection of Group Policy settings that help
define what a system looks like and how it might behave for a
particular group of users. GPOs help define the security options,
registry-based policies, software installation and folder redirection
and script options. The three types of GPOs are local, non-local and
starter GPOs. A local GPO is a collection of Group Policy setting
that applies specifically to local computers.A non-local GPO applies
to one or more Windows computers or users. These GPOs apply to
Windows computers when linked to Active Directory objectives,
such as domains and sites. The starter GPOs represent the
templates for Group Policy settings. This GPO enables an
administrator to use a pre-configured group of settings to create
future policies.'Related: Interview Questions For System
Administrators (With Answers)

3. What commands might you use to check TCP/IP

configurations?

Transmission control protocol/Internet protocol (TCP/IP) is the

underlying structure of a computer system and defines how a
computer communicates with other computers. This is a more in-
depth question that tests your knowledge of Windows servers. When
answering this question, list the commands you might use for
checking a computer or server's TCP/IP
configuration.Example: ‘Two frequently used TCP/IP configurations
commands are Ipconfig and ping. Ipconfig command checks the IP
setup of the computer and provides details about the host
computer's TCP/IP configuration. If you use Ipconfig/all, it gives you
detail about the complete configurations related to TCP/IP
configuration, such as Ethernet adapter, gateway router, domain
name system (DNS) and dynamic host configuration protocol
(DHCP).Ping is another TCP/IP command that helps computers
communicate with each other over the internet. The command uses
two choices to make a call to another computer over the network.
It can either use the computer's name or the IP address. The
function of this command is to place the call to some other
computer over the network.'Related: How To Use A Command
Prompt (With Definition And Tips)

4. What is IntelliMirror?

IntelliMirror is a critical Windows server process and knowledge

about this can help professionals shift their workstations without
losing their files and data. When answering this question, briefly
explain what it means and how it can help an administrator access
applications and data from a different client
location.Example: ‘IntelliMirror is a Windows 2000 client/server
application that helps a user create a smart backup copy of
Windows 2000 on the server. It helps reconcile computer or desktop
applications, settings and stored files for users. IntelliMirror
benefits users who regularly shift their workstations and those who
work offline. It allows a crashed computer to be quickly restored
and enables mobile users to access applications from a different
client machine.With IntelliMirror, users have constant access to
information and software, regardless of whether they connect to
the network. This provides safe maintenance of data and ensures it
is readily available.'

5. What is the primary objective of installing DNS servers?

The DNS server helps keep the IP addresses inside a company

network private. When answering this question, explain what a DNS
server is and provide the benefits it offers to a Windows server
administrator.Example: ‘A DNS server is a server that comprises a
database of public IP addresses and their associated host names.
Upon typing domain names, such as in.indeed.com, into the web
browser, DNS helps find the correct IP address for the website. The
browser then uses that address to connect with origin servers and
ensure users' access to website information. The DNS server helps
match website host names to their corresponding IP addresses.The
primary objective of installing a DNS server is that it helps in
avoiding memorisation of long numbers in IP addresses and
automatically translates website names into numbers to allow the
server to load the correct website page.'Related: 7 DNS Interview
Questions (With Explanations And Answers)

6. What are the key changes in the 2012 version of the

Windows server?

The Windows Server 2012 introduced various improvements to the

technology. An employer might ask this question to understand
whether you stay up-to-date with the latest technologies. Your
answer shows you know how this technology developed. When
answering this question, identify the significant changes in 2012
and specify how these changes might affect the usage of
Windows.Example: ‘The 2012 version of Windows server introduced
major changes in usage and technology. This server boasts a new
interface, resilient file system, improved Hyper-V, PowerShell,
enhanced performance and simpler licensing. Server 2012 uses
PowerShell version 4 and has over 2300 commandlets. Through
PowerShell, developers can now manage every OS and companion
server aspect, such as structured query language (SQL) or
Lync.Windows 2012 offers four licensing versions: foundation,
essential, standard and data centre. Foundation and essential
versions are ideal for the small business market, whereas the
standard and data centre focus on a larger application.
Interestingly, the new resilient file system runs much faster and
requires no reboot.'Related: 10 PowerShell Interview Questions
(With Sample Answers)

7. Explain what is INODE in the Windows server.

INODE stores information about directories and files, making it an

important concept. Apart from behavioural questions, an interview
might ask this question to gauge your technical knowledge about
Windows servers. When answering this question, briefly describe
the use and purpose of INODE.Example: ‘INODE is an index node
and serves as a unique identifier for a specific piece of metadata on
a file system. It is a unique number allocated to a file in a UNIX-like
operating system. An INODE cannot store the file information, name
or content. It simply helps in pointing to a specific file or
directory.'Related: 60 Examples Of UNIX interview Questions (With
Answers)

8. How do you work under pressure?

Every job comes with unique tension and stress and working as a
Windows server administrator is no different. When asking this
question, interviewers want to know your capability to perform
under a hectic schedule. During your interview, show how you
handle stressful work situations. Wherever possible, give examples
from your past job.Example: ‘While working under pressure might
be overwhelming for many people, I see such situations as a
motivation to excel in my job. When the work gets tough, I push
myself at a quicker pace to accomplish my goals. Even when my
team feels the pressure of stringent deadlines, I try to remain calm
and understand the situation before concluding. I try to overcome
pressure by prioritising and working on one task at a time. In my
previous job, when the Always On VPN setup failed to connect
clients to the internal network, I did not lose my calmness and tried
to understand the root cause of the issue. Upon troubleshooting, I
found that an invalid virtual private network (VPN) certificate was
causing the issue.'Please note that none of the companies,
institutions or organisations mentioned in this article are
associated with Indeed.

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35 Windows Administrator Interview
Questions (With Answers)
Indeed Editorial Team

Updated 21 August 2023

A Windows administrator is responsible for managing and maintaining an

organisation's computer systems, networks and servers that run on the
Windows operating system. Employers hiring for the role often look for
candidates with a sound knowledge of administrative features and
activities. Researching some interview questions and preparing answers
to them can help you demonstrate your knowledge and expertise in an
interview and assist you in advancing in the hiring process. In this article,
we list 35 Windows administrator interview questions and provide some
sample answers to help you prepare better for your session. Please note
that none of the companies, institutions or organisations mentioned in
this article are associated with Indeed.

Related jobs on Indeed

Part-time jobs

Full-time jobs

Remote jobs

Urgently needed jobs

View more jobs on Indeed

10 General Windows Administrator Interview

Questions
Here are 10 general Windows administrator interview questions to help
you prepare for your interview:

1. Can you tell us about yourself and your background?

2. Why did you apply for this role?
3. What are your strengths and weaknesses?
 4. How do you handle challenges and problems in the
workplace?
5. Can you give an example of a time when you had to
work as part of a team?
6. How do you handle conflicts or difficult situations with
coworkers or customers?
7. Can you describe a time when you had to think
creatively to solve a problem?
8. Can you tell us about a major project you have worked
on and your role in it?
9. How do you stay organised and prioritise your tasks?
10. What are your long-term career goals and how do
you plan to achieve them?

Related: How To Write A Windows Administrator Resume (With Template)

10 Questions About Experience And

Background
Here are 10 interview questions that the interviewers may ask to
understand your experience and educational background:

1. What specific responsibilities have you had in your past

roles as a Windows administrator?
2. Can you describe a challenging project you worked on
and how you overcame any obstacles during the
project?
3. Do you follow the latest updates and advancements in
Windows Server technology?
4. Can you describe a time when you had to troubleshoot
a complex issue in Windows Server and how you
resolved it?
5. Can you explain your experience with Active Directory
and Group Policy in Windows Server?
6. Have you managed virtualisation technologies such as
Hyper-V in Windows Server?
7. Can you describe your experience with backup and
disaster recovery procedures in Windows Server?
 8. How have you handled security and data protection in
Windows Server environments?
9. Can you give an example of how you have optimised
performance on Windows Server systems?
10. Have you worked with cloud-based solutions such
as Microsoft Azure and how do they integrate with
Windows Server?

Related: 8 Windows Server Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

10 In-Depth Interview Questions

Here are 10 in-depth questions that can help you prepare for your
Windows administrator interview:

1. Can you explain your experience with clustering and

high availability solutions in Windows Server
environments?
2. How have you managed storage solutions in Windows
Server, including SAN and NAS systems?
3. Can you describe your experience with RemoteApp and
how you have implemented and managed RemoteApp
solutions in Windows Server environments?
4. Have you worked with Directory Services in Windows
Server, including LDAP and Kerberos authentication?
5. Can you explain your experience with certificate
services and public key infrastructure in Windows
Server environments?
6. How have you managed and troubleshot IIS in Windows
Server, including website creation and management?
7. Can you describe your experience with Windows Server
Core installations and how you have managed and
maintained them?
8. How have you managed and maintained the security of
Windows Server environments, including regular
security audits and vulnerability assessments?
 9. Can you describe your experience with PowerShell and
how you have utilised it for automation and
administration in Windows Server environments?
10. Have you worked with other Microsoft
technologies such as Exchange and SharePoint, and
how have you integrated these solutions with Windows
Server environments?

Related: 17 Active Directory Interview Questions And Example Answers

5 Windows Administrator Interview Questions

With Sample Answers
Here are five interview questions with sample answers to help you
prepare for your interview:

1. What experience do you have with Windows Server

administration?

Interviewers may ask this question to understand your level of expertise

and experience in maintaining and managing Windows Server. Windows
Server administration is an important role in many organisations, and
asking this question allows a hiring manager to ensure that you have the
necessary experience and knowledge to perform the required tasks. In
your response, you can summarise your experience and state the tools
and services you have worked with.Example answer: I have over three
years of experience in Windows Server administration. During this time, I
worked on various Windows Server operating systems, including Server
2008, 2012 and 2016. My experience includes managing Active Directory,
Group Policy, DNS, DHCP and Windows updates and patches. I have
experience with server backup and disaster recovery solutions. This
includes setting up and maintaining regular backups and troubleshooting
and resolving issues related to server performance, security and
networking. I also have experience working with virtualisation
technologies, such as Hyper-V and VMware.Find Windows administrator
jobs

2. Can you explain Active Directory and its components?

Asking about your experience with Active Directory can help interviewers
comprehend your technical knowledge on the subject. This includes your
ability to create and manage user accounts and troubleshoot various
issues. You can answer this question by defining Active Directory, stating
its uses and listing some of its components to demonstrate your
knowledge and expertise.Example answer: Microsoft's Active Directory,
or AD, is a directory service for Windows domain networks. It is a
database that stores information about network resources, such as user
accounts, computer accounts and security policies. You can use it to
authenticate and authorise all users and computers in a Windows domain-
type network. Some of the main components of Active Directory include
domain, domain controllers, organisational units, or OUs, Group Policy
objects, or GPOs, and lightweight directory access protocol, or
LDAP.Related: What Are Active Directory Management Tools? (With
Benefits)

3. Can you explain Group Policy and its use in a Windows

environment?

Recruiters may ask this question to find out about your ability to handle
and maintain Group Policy, including creating and managing Group Policy
objects. Your answer can help them comprehend how well you know this
feature. In your response, explain what Group Policy is and elaborate upon
its uses to show your knowledge of the subject.Example answer: Group
Policy is a feature of the Microsoft Windows operating system that allows
administrators to centrally manage and configure settings for users and
computers in an Active Directory environment. It enables an administrator
to configure and enforce policies on a specific group of users and
computers, such as security settings, software deployment and desktop
configurations. This can help standardise the configuration of computers
and users in an organisation. You can also use this feature to enforce
security policies, install software and configure settings for users and
computers across the entire organisation.Related: What Is Desktop
Virtualisation? (Benefits And Tips)

4. How do you manage and troubleshoot Windows updates

and patches?

This can be another question hiring managers ask to test your technical
expertise. Updates and patches are typically frequent on Windows Server,
and knowing how to handle them can help you work with them better. In
your response, you can talk about the steps you take to monitor regular
updates and patches and manage them efficiently.Example
answer: Managing and troubleshooting Windows updates and patches is
an important part of maintaining the security and stability of Windows
Server. As a Windows Server administrator, I ensure that I monitor the
updates and patches that Microsoft releases by regularly checking for
updates and installing them in a timely manner. To handle updates and
patches, I use the built-in Windows Update service, which allows me to
check for updates and install them automatically. I also use the Windows
Server Update Services, or WSUS, to manage updates and patches for
multiple servers at once.Related: 8 DHCP Interview Questions (With
Example Answers And Tips)

5. How do you monitor and optimise server performance?

Interviewers may ask this question to understand your technical expertise

in working with Windows Server. As a Windows administrator, it is
advisable that you have a good knowledge of servers, as you may work
with them regularly. To answer this question, accurately define the steps
you might take to monitor server performance and optimise it.Example
answer: As a Windows Server administrator, I ensure that I am monitoring
the key performance metrics of the servers that I manage on a regular
basis. These include CPU and memory usage, disk input and output and
network traffic. I use performance monitoring tools, such as Task
Manager, Performance Monitor and Resource Monitor, to gather data on
these metrics. I also establish a baseline of what is normal for each
server by collecting data on the performance metrics over time. This
helps me to identify when performance deviates from the norm.

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