Joining a domain is essential for businesses and organizations that use centralized management for users, security policies, and resources. Windows 11 makes it easy to connect your PC to a domain, allowing access to shared files, printers, and network resources securely.

This guide will show you how to add a computer to a domain in Windows 11 safely and efficiently.

Table of Contents

Prerequisites

Before you start, make sure you have:

Windows 11 Pro, Enterprise, or Education edition (Home edition cannot join domains)
Domain name (provided by your IT administrator)
Domain user account credentials
Network connectivity to the domain controller

Step 1: Open System Settings

Press Win + I to open Settings
Go to System → About
Scroll down to Device specifications

Step 2: Access Domain Join Settings

Under Device specifications, click Rename this PC (Advanced) or Domain/Workgroup settings
In the Related settings section, click Advanced system settings
The System Properties window will open

Step 3: Change Computer Name / Domain

In the System Properties window, go to the Computer Name tab
Click Change…
Under Member of, select Domain
Enter the domain name provided by your administrator
Click OK

Step 4: Enter Domain Credentials

A prompt will appear asking for a username and password with permission to join the domain
Enter the credentials provided by your IT admin
Click OK

Step 5: Restart Your Computer

After successfully joining the domain, Windows 11 will prompt you to restart your PC.

Save all your work
Click Restart Now

Step 6: Sign In with Domain Account

After reboot, at the login screen, select Other user
Enter your domain credentials (username@domain or domain\username)
Press Enter to log in

Now your computer is fully connected to the domain, and all domain policies, drives, and printers are accessible.

Tips for Smooth Domain Joining

Ensure your PC name is unique on the domain
Check network connectivity if the domain cannot be found
Make sure the date and time on your PC match the domain controller
Disable VPN connections temporarily if the domain is internal

Troubleshooting

Cannot find domain → Verify network connectivity and DNS settings
Access denied → Make sure you have proper permissions from IT admin
Domain not supported → Windows 11 Home cannot join domains; upgrade to Pro

Final Thoughts

Adding a Windows 11 PC to a domain centralizes management and simplifies access to resources in a business environment. By following these step-by-step instructions, you can ensure your PC is securely connected and ready for domain-based policies, network drives, and printers.

Joining a domain is a straightforward process once you have the correct permissions, network access, and domain information.

How to Add a Computer to a Domain in Windows 11: A Step-by-Step Guide