Configure QNAP as a Domain Controller for Windows Client

Domain controllers are essential for managing user authentication, access control, and centralized policies within a network. While most organizations rely on Windows Server Active Directory, QNAP NAS devices can also function as a lightweight domain controller using their built-in directory services. This guide explains how to set up a QNAP NAS as a domain controller, allowing you to manage users, computers, and shared resources efficiently in a small or home lab environment. In this lab, I am using my QNAP TS-130 as a Domain Controller.

Configure QNAP as a Domain Controller

Login to QNAP dashboard, go to Control Panel > Privilege > Domain Controller

Enable Domain Controller, it will ask you to enable Advanced Permission Settings

Back to Domain Controller settings again.

Create a new user.

Let's say the username is client01

Joining a Windows 11 client

Make sure the DNS settings pointed to QNAP

Once you logged in, you can check the domain where the client joined.

You may also check the shared folder