I’ve spent a lot of time hunting down resources that actually make a difference in the day-to-day life of a Windows system administrator.
Some books are too outdated, some are locked behind a paywall, and others just don’t give you much value.
That’s why I decided to put together this list of free eBooks that I personally think are worth your time in 2025.
Each one has something practical to offer, whether it’s learning new tricks in Windows Server, brushing up on PowerShell, or keeping up with Microsoft’s latest security practices.
If you have got a suggestion or know of a free ebook that should be added, feel free to contact us and/or leave a comment below.
Free Windows System Administrator eBooks
1. Hadoop for Windows Succinctly
Authors: Dave Vickers
Quick Overview: This book shows you how to get Hadoop running on Windows without the usual friction. It walks through setup, practical usage, and how to plug Hadoop into real workloads so you can process data locally or in hybrid environments.
Main takeaways from this book are:
- Step-by-step Hadoop installation on Windows
- Working with core components and APIs
- How to test, scale, and troubleshoot on a Windows box
- Ideas for BI/reporting integration
2. Microsoft Windows Server Administration Essentials
Authors: Tom Carpenter (and contributors)
Quick Overview: A straightforward foundation for Windows Server admins. It covers the core roles and features you’ll use every day, from Active Directory and Group Policy to networking, IIS, and maintenance.
Main takeaways from this book are:
- Clear explanations of server roles and features
- Active Directory, DNS/DHCP, and Group Policy basics
- Admin best practices for updates, backups, and monitoring
- Great starting point for certification prep
3. System Administrator’s Guide (Microsoft Dynamics GP)
Authors: Microsoft
Quick Overview: If you touch Dynamics GP in your environment, this guide is a lifesaver. It explains the moving parts admins handle daily, including maintenance, backups, printing, and process servers.
Main takeaways from this book are:
- How to plan and maintain GP environments
- Backup and recovery guidance
- Security, auditing, and user management
- Practical tips for troubleshooting and printing
4. The Definitive Guide to Windows Desktop Administration
Authors: Don Jones (Editor) and contributors
Quick Overview: A practical collection focused on the desktop side of Windows management. Useful if you’re streamlining deployments, hardening endpoints, or improving automation across fleets of PCs.
Main takeaways from this book are:
- Deployment automation and imaging tips
- Endpoint security and configuration management
- Scripting approaches for repetitive tasks
- Inventory and asset management ideas
5. Windows Server 2022 Installation & Configuration
Authors: APSCN LAN Support Team
Quick Overview: A clear, step-by-step guide through a Windows Server 2022 build. It covers requirements, installs, and core roles like AD DS, DNS, DHCP, WSUS, plus backup and troubleshooting.
Main takeaways from this book are:
- Clean install and post-install checklist
- Active Directory, DNS/DHCP, and WSUS setup
- Backup, restore, and AD troubleshooting tips
- Real-world screens and tasks you’ll use daily
6. Windows Server 2022 & PowerShell All-in-One For Dummies
Authors: (Wiley) – multiple contributors
Quick Overview: A broad, practical reference that’s easy to dip into. It moves from installing and configuring Server 2022 to building repeatable scripts in PowerShell, then into virtualization, containers, and security basics.
Main takeaways from this book are:
- Server 2022 essentials you can apply right away
- PowerShell scripts and patterns that save time
- Hyper-V and containers explained in simple terms
- Security hygiene you should not skip
7. Windows Server 2025 Security Book
Authors: Microsoft Windows Server Team
Quick Overview: A focused look at what’s new and important for securing Windows Server 2025, from hardware-rooted protections to identity hardening and secure defaults that reduce attack surface.
Main takeaways from this book are:
- Hardware-backed security features you can enable
- Credential Guard, application control, and baselines
- Stronger identity and service account practices
- Modern protocol and configuration guidance
8. System Administrator’s Handbook
Authors: Redgate / Simple-Talk contributors
Quick Overview: A practical, straight-to-the-point reference for everyday sysadmin work. It focuses on reliable processes, clear checklists, and time-saving tips you can use right away across Windows servers and services.
Main takeaways from this book are:
- Backup, patching, and monitoring checklists that actually work
- PowerShell snippets and automation ideas for common tasks
- Disaster recovery planning and incident response basics
- Windows-focused guidance on services, storage, and networking
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