Install Administrative Template (ADMX/ADML) Files on a Windows DC

To install Group Policy Administrative Template files (ADMX/ADML) on a domain controller, follow these general steps:

1. Download the ADMX/ADML files: You need to obtain the latest ADMX/ADML files for the version of Windows Server you are using. These files contain the policy definitions that you can configure using the Group Policy Management Console.
2. Extract the files: Once downloaded, extract the contents of the downloaded ADMX/ADML files to a location on your domain controller. Usually, these files come in a compressed format such as ZIP. Extract them to a folder where they can be easily accessed.
3. Copy the ADMX files: Copy all the ADMX files from the extracted folder to the central store. The central store is a repository for ADMX files that allows all administrators to use the same set of policy definitions. The central store is typically located at: \\<domain>\SYSVOL\<domain>\Policies\PolicyDefinitions.If the PolicyDefinitions folder doesn’t exist, you will need to create it.
4. Copy the ADML files (Language Files): In addition to the ADMX files, you also need to copy the corresponding language-specific ADML files to the central store if you have multiple language requirements. These files provide the localized display names and descriptions for the policies. Place them in the appropriate language subfolder within the PolicyDefinitions folder.For example, for English (United States), the folder structure would be: \\<domain>\SYSVOL\<domain>\Policies\PolicyDefinitions\en-US.
5. Check Group Policy Management Console: Once the ADMX/ADML files are copied to the central store, open the Group Policy Management Console (GPMC) on your domain controller or another machine with the RSAT installed. You should see the new policy settings available for configuration.
6. Test and Implement Policies: After the ADMX/ADML files are installed, you can start configuring policies using the Group Policy Management Console. Test policies in a controlled environment before deploying them widely.
7. Update Central Store Regularly: Periodically check for updates to ADMX/ADML files and update the central store accordingly to ensure that you have access to the latest policy settings and definitions.

By following these steps, you can install ADMX/ADML files on your domain controller and effectively manage Group Policy settings for your domain.