How to (re)install the Active Directory Users and Computers (ADUC) after Windows Update

Why is it happening?

One common issue after installing some updates by Windows Update is the ADUC is missing from the apps. The reason is unknown, Microsoft hasn't fixed this issue yet. Usually, it happens after installing updates, like 20H2. The new name of this application is RSAT (Remote Server Administration Tools).

Unfortunately, the official recommendation (turn it on in "Programs and Features") didn't work on my computer for some reason, so I had to find another way to install Active Directory Users and Computers (ADUC) / Remote Server Administration Tools (RSAT).

I found this solution to solve the issue without downloading any .exe files or installers. It's 100% safe to use, with no risk.

I tested it, and it works on Windows 10, and probably on Windows 11 as well (leave a comment below, if you tried - Thanks!).

How to (re)install the ADUC / RSAT?

Insert and run these commands in a Powershell window (Run as Administrator). Make sure that you have an active Internet connection.

$UseWUServer = Get-ItemProperty -Path "HKLM:\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\WindowsUpdate\AU" -Name "UseWUServer" | Select-Object -ExpandProperty UseWUServer

Set-ItemProperty -Path "HKLM:\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\WindowsUpdate\AU" -Name "UseWUServer" -Value 0

Restart-Service "Windows Update"

Get-WindowsCapability -Name "RSAT*" -Online | Add-WindowsCapability –Online

Set-ItemProperty -Path "HKLM:\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\WindowsUpdate\AU" -Name "UseWUServer" -Value $UseWUServer

Restart-Service "Windows Update"

It will run for 10-15 minutes, be patient. Once it's finished, you will find the Active Directory Users and Computers in the Start Menu.

An alternative way to start it: Press Win + R, type dsa.msc, then press Enter.