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How to Fix RSAT Not Installing on Windows 10: Step-by-Step Solutions

Remote Server Administration Tools (RSAT) are essential for managing Windows Server roles and features from a Windows 10 computer. However, sometimes RSAT fails to install correctly, which can be frustrating for users.

This guide provides simple, step-by-step solutions to help you fix RSAT installation issues on Windows 10. Each step is explained clearly to ensure even beginners can follow along without confusion.

By following these instructions, you will be able to troubleshoot and resolve common problems that prevent RSAT from installing. Let’s get started with some quick checks before moving on to detailed solutions.

Understanding why each step matters will help you avoid similar issues in the future and ensure your system is properly configured for RSAT.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Basic Checks

Before attempting to install RSAT, make sure your system meets the following requirements:

  • Windows 10 Version: RSAT is only available on Windows 10 Professional, Enterprise, and Education editions. It is not supported on Windows 10 Home.
  • Windows Version Build: RSAT features are included as optional features starting from Windows 10 October 2018 Update (version 1809) and later. Earlier versions require downloading RSAT from Microsoft’s website.
  • Windows Updates: Ensure your system is fully updated through Windows Update. Missing updates can cause installation failures.
  • Administrative Rights: You must be logged in with an administrator account to install RSAT.

Step 1: Check Your Windows 10 Version

RSAT installation depends heavily on your Windows 10 version. To check your version:

  1. Press Windows + R on your keyboard to open the Run dialog.
  2. Type winver and press Enter.
  3. A window will appear showing your Windows version and build number.

If your version is earlier than 1809, RSAT must be downloaded and installed manually from Microsoft’s website. For versions 1809 or later, RSAT features are available as optional features within Windows.

Step 2: Install RSAT Using Optional Features (For Windows 10 Version 1809 and Later)

Starting with Windows 10 version 1809, RSAT tools are included as optional features. Here’s how to install them:

  1. Open Settings by pressing Windows + I.
  2. Go to Apps > Optional Features.
  3. Click Add a feature at the top.
  4. In the search box, type RSAT to filter the list.
  5. From the results, select the RSAT tools you want to install, for example, RSAT: Active Directory Tools, and click Install.
  6. Wait for the installation to complete, then restart your computer to finalize the setup.

Why this matters: Installing RSAT as optional features ensures they integrate properly with Windows 10’s management framework and receive updates automatically.

Step 3: Use PowerShell to Install RSAT Features

If the Settings app method doesn’t work, you can try installing RSAT features using PowerShell, a powerful command-line tool.

  1. Press Windows + X and select Windows PowerShell (Admin) to open PowerShell with administrative rights.
  2. To see all available RSAT features, type the following command and press Enter:
Get-WindowsCapability -Name RSAT* -Online

This lists all RSAT components and their installation status.

  1. To install a specific RSAT feature, use this command, replacing <FeatureName> with the exact name from the list:
Add-WindowsCapability -Online -Name <FeatureName>

For example, to install Active Directory tools:

Add-WindowsCapability -Online -Name Rsat.ActiveDirectory.DS-LDS.Tools~~~~0.0.1.0

After installation, restart your computer.

Why this matters: PowerShell offers more control and detailed feedback during installation, which helps in identifying errors.

Step 4: Enable Required Services

Some RSAT tools depend on Windows services running properly. Make sure the following services are enabled and running:

  • Windows Update – Required for downloading features.
  • Background Intelligent Transfer Service (BITS) – Helps transfer files in the background.

To check services:

  1. Press Windows + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.
  2. Scroll down to find the services listed above.
  3. Right-click each, select Properties, and set the Startup type to Automatic.
  4. If the service is not running, click Start.

Why this matters: These services are necessary for the installation and proper functioning of RSAT tools.

Step 5: Troubleshoot Common Errors

If RSAT installation still fails, here are some common issues and fixes:

  • Error: “Feature installation failed” – Run Windows Update troubleshooter or reset Windows Update components to fix corrupted files.
  • RSAT features missing in Optional Features list – Confirm your Windows version is 1809 or later. If not, download RSAT manually from Microsoft.
  • Installation hangs or freezes – Disable antivirus temporarily and try again, as some antivirus programs block installation.

Reset Windows Update Components (Advanced)

If you suspect Windows Update issues, resetting its components can help:

  1. Open PowerShell as Administrator.
  2. Run these commands one by one:
net stop wuauserv
net stop cryptSvc
net stop bits
net stop msiserver
ren C:WindowsSoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old
ren C:WindowsSystem32catroot2 catroot2.old
net start wuauserv
net start cryptSvc
net start bits
net start msiserver

Then, try installing RSAT again.

Alternative Method: Manual RSAT Installation for Older Windows 10 Versions

For Windows 10 versions earlier than 1809, RSAT is not included as optional features. Instead, download the RSAT package from Microsoft’s official website:

  • Go to the Microsoft RSAT download page.
  • Select the correct version matching your Windows 10 build.
  • Download and run the installer.
  • Follow on-screen instructions and restart your PC after installation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why can’t I find RSAT in Optional Features?

RSAT is only available as optional features in Windows 10 version 1809 or later. Earlier versions require manual installation using downloaded installers.

Do I need to install all RSAT tools?

No, you can install only the specific RSAT features you need, such as Active Directory tools or DHCP management.

Can I install RSAT on Windows 10 Home?

No, RSAT is not supported on Windows 10 Home editions. You need Windows 10 Professional, Enterprise, or Education.

How do I uninstall RSAT features?

Go to Settings > Apps > Optional Features, find the installed RSAT feature, click on it, and select Uninstall.

What if RSAT tools don’t work after installation?

Make sure you restarted your computer. Also, verify that you have administrative privileges and that the required services are running.

When Nothing Works

If none of the above steps solve your RSAT installation issues, consider the following:

  • Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter from Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot.
  • Use the System File Checker tool by running sfc /scannow in Command Prompt (Admin) to repair corrupted system files.
  • Check Microsoft’s official documentation and support forums for the latest updates and fixes:

Microsoft RSAT Documentation

If the problem persists, you may consider reaching out to Microsoft Support for personalized assistance.

Conclusion

Installing RSAT on Windows 10 is straightforward when you follow the correct procedures. Always start by verifying your Windows version and edition, as these are critical for compatibility.

Using the built-in Optional Features or PowerShell commands provides reliable ways to install RSAT tools. Ensuring related services are running and your system is updated reduces installation errors.

By applying the troubleshooting tips and alternative methods outlined here, you can resolve most RSAT installation problems efficiently.

Remember to check Microsoft’s official resources if you encounter persistent issues, and keep your system backed up before making significant changes.

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