What should be verified as completed before installing server roles and features according to the Add Roles and Features Wizard?

• A. Ensure firewall settings are configured
• B. Ensure static IP addresses have been configured
• C. Ensure antivirus software is installed
• D. Ensure user accounts are created

Answer: (B)

Before installing server roles and features, it is essential to ensure that static IP addresses have been configured. This step is critical because assigning a static IP address ensures that the server retains the same address on your network, which is vital for consistent access and communication with other devices. Static IP addresses facilitate the reliability of services that will be offered by the server and prevent disruptions that might occur if the server were to receive a different IP address from a DHCP server after a reboot or for other reasons.

A configured static IP address is especially important for servers that will be hosting services that need to be reliably reached, such as web services, mail servers, and database servers, to name a few. Other aspects like firewall settings, antivirus installations, and user accounts are also necessary for overall server management and security, but the configuration of a static IP address specifically relates to the server's network identity and connectivity essential for its role and features post-installation.