Being a Windows system administrator isn’t easy, and having the right books at your fingertips can make a huge difference in how smoothly your day, week, month, or life goes.
Finding books that are practical, up-to-date, and easy to follow can be tricky, some are outdated, some are locked behind expensive paywalls, and others just don’t offer much value for your time.
That’s why I decided to put together this list of the best Windows system administration books in 2025.
Each one has something practical to offer, whether it’s mastering Windows Server 2025, learning new PowerShell tricks, or keeping up with Microsoft’s latest security and network management practices.
Whether you’re a beginner trying to get a solid foundation, or a seasoned admin looking to sharpen your skills, these books are worth checking out.
If you have a suggestion or feedback, feel free to contact us or leave a comment below, I’d love to hear from you.
Best Windows System Administrator eBooks
1. Mastering Windows Server 2025: Advance from IT Pro to SysAdmin
Authors: Jordan Krause
Quick Overview: A comprehensive guide covering Windows Server 2025 from beginner to advanced levels, complete with labs and real-world examples to make learning practical and hands-on.
What you will learn from this book:
- Server installation, configuration, and management
- Advanced troubleshooting and optimization techniques
- Practical hands-on labs and scenario-based exercises
- Tips for scaling and maintaining enterprise environments
2. Learn Windows PowerShell in a Month of Lunches 3rd Edition
Authors: Don Jones
Quick Overview: Perfect for administrators who want to learn PowerShell in manageable, daily lessons that quickly improve scripting skills and automation.
What you will learn from this book:
- PowerShell basics and syntax
- Effective automation of repetitive tasks
- Managing Windows systems through scripts
- Tips for integrating PowerShell with existing admin workflows
3. Mastering Active Directory: Understand the Core Functionalities of Active Directory Services
Authors: Dishan Francis
Quick Overview: A detailed guide to mastering Active Directory, from core services to automation with PowerShell for efficient administration.
What you will learn from this book:
- Active Directory roles, objects, and policies
- Group Policy and security management
- PowerShell automation for directory services
- Best practices for maintaining large AD environments
4. Mastering Windows Security and Hardening
Authors: Mark Dunkerley, Matt Tumbarello
Quick Overview: This book focuses on zero-trust principles and modern hardening techniques to keep your Windows environment secure.
What you will learn from this book:
- Implementing zero-trust security
- Hardening Windows servers and endpoints
- Access control and identity management best practices
- Strategies for proactive threat mitigation
5. PowerShell for System Administrators: Automation, Scripting, and Management for Windows Environments
Authors: Ralph Edwards
Quick Overview: Focused on practical PowerShell use for Windows admins, including automation, scripting, and daily management tasks.
What you will learn from this book:
- Writing scripts to automate routine tasks
- Managing Windows systems efficiently
- PowerShell best practices and tips
- Integration with Windows services and workflows
6. Top Windows System Administration in 2025 Guide
Authors: Bradley Paul
Quick Overview: A modern guide covering essential sysadmin skills for 2025, practical workflows, and career-focused insights.
What you will learn from this book:
- Core Windows admin tasks for 2025
- Modern administration workflows
- Automation and productivity tips
- Career guidance and skill advancement
7. Mastering Windows Privilege Escalation: Reveal Windows’ secrets and explore artful access methods
Authors: Asmaa Kotb
Quick Overview: Focused on security and privilege escalation techniques for Windows environments, teaching both defense and offensive insights.
What you will learn from this book:
- Understanding Windows privilege models
- Techniques attackers use and how to defend
- PowerShell and system exploitation tips
- Hardening and monitoring strategies
8. Windows Server 2025 Administration Fundamentals: A beginner’s guide
Authors: Bekim Dauti
Quick Overview: A beginner-friendly guide to Windows Server 2025 administration, covering core concepts, configuration, and management.
What you will learn from this book:
- Server setup and configuration basics
- Core administration tasks
- Monitoring and maintenance essentials
- Practical examples for everyday admin work
9. Network Architecture Mastery: Build Secure Networks Confidently
Authors: Ravi Rajput
Quick Overview: Covers modern network design and security practices for Windows administrators, with actionable guidance for enterprise environments.
What you will learn from this book:
- Designing and securing Windows networks
- Best practices for enterprise infrastructure
- Network troubleshooting and monitoring
- Modern protocols and configuration techniques
If you don’t have money right now to buy these books, take a look at our list of free Windows system admin books.
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The network mastery book #9 on this list, is very underrated.