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Getting Started with Windows Server

Windows Server

Windows Server is a powerful operating system designed for enterprise-level management, hosting, and networking. This guide will help you get started with Windows Server by covering navigation, installing components, and basic server management.

Understanding Windows Server Editions

Windows Server Standard vs. Datacenter

Windows Server comes in multiple editions, with Standard and Datacenter being the most common. Here’s a detailed feature comparison:

FeatureStandard EditionDatacenter Edition
Virtual Machines (VMs)🖥️ Up to 2 VMs + 1 Hyper-V host🖥️ Unlimited VMs + Hyper-V containers
Software-Defined Networking (SDN)❌ Not included✅ Included
Storage Spaces Direct (S2D)❌ Not included✅ Included
Shielded Virtual Machines❌ Not included✅ Included
Host Guardian Service❌ Not included✅ Included
Core Features (e.g., AD, DNS)✅ Included✅ Included
Windows Containers✅ Unlimited✅ Unlimited
Network Controller❌ Not included✅ Included
Storage Replica⚠️ Limited to 1 partnership and 2TB✅ Unlimited partnerships and size

Choose the edition that best fits your organization’s needs based on virtualization, security, and feature requirements.

Windows Server 2025 Standard

Windows Server 2025 Standard

www.amazon.com

The latest version of Windows Server for small to medium businesses.

 Windows Server 2025 Datacenter

Windows Server 2025 Datacenter

www.amazon.com

The latest version of Windows Server ready for any size of business.

Prerequisites

  1. A valid Windows Server license.
  2. You have access to a Windows Server installation (physical or virtual).
  3. You have administrative privileges on the server.

Step 1: Navigating the Windows Server Interface

Windows Server uses a slightly different interface compared to regular Windows desktop editions. Here are the key areas to familiarize yourself with:

Server Manager

The Server Manager is the central hub for managing your server. It opens automatically upon login and allows you to:

  • Add roles and features.
  • Manage local and remote servers.
  • Monitor server performance.

If it’s closed, you can reopen it by searching for “Server Manager” in the Start menu.

Control Panel and Settings

While the Control Panel is still available, many settings have moved to the Settings app. Use the search bar in the Start menu to quickly find specific settings.

Command Line Tools

Windows Server supports both Command Prompt and PowerShell for advanced management tasks. PowerShell is particularly powerful for automation and scripting.

Step 2: Installing Roles and Features

Windows Server uses a modular approach where you can add specific roles and features based on your needs.

Adding Roles and Features

  1. Open Server Manager.

  2. Click on Add roles and features.

  3. Follow the wizard to select the roles or features you want to install. Common roles include:

    • Active Directory Domain Services (AD DS) for managing domains.
    • Web Server (IIS) for hosting websites.
    • File and Storage Services for managing shared files.

  4. Confirm your selections and click Install.

Using PowerShell

You can also install roles and features using PowerShell. For example, to install IIS:

Terminal window
Install-WindowsFeature -Name Web-Server -IncludeManagementTools

Step 3: Managing Users and Permissions

Managing users and permissions is a critical part of server administration.

Adding Users

  1. Open Computer Management (search for it in the Start menu).
  2. Navigate to Local Users and Groups > Users.
  3. Right-click and select New User to create a new user account.

Setting Permissions

Use the Security tab in file or folder properties to assign permissions to users or groups.

Step 4: Configuring Networking

Networking is essential for connecting your server to other devices and the internet.

Setting a Static IP Address

  1. Open Network and Sharing Center.
  2. Click on your network connection and select Properties.
  3. Select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) and click Properties.
  4. Enter your static IP address, subnet mask, and gateway.

Enabling Remote Desktop

  1. Open System Properties (search for “Remote Desktop” in the Start menu).
  2. Under the Remote tab, enable Allow remote connections to this computer.
  3. Add users who are allowed to connect remotely.

Step 5: Keeping Your Server Updated

Regular updates are crucial for security and performance.

Using Windows Update

  1. Open Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
  2. Click Check for updates to install the latest patches.

Using PowerShell

To check for and install updates via PowerShell:

Terminal window
Install-Module PSWindowsUpdate
Get-WindowsUpdate
Install-WindowsUpdate

Server vs. Server Core

When installing Windows Server, you can choose between two installation options:

  • Server with Desktop Experience:

    • Includes a graphical user interface (GUI).
    • Suitable for administrators who prefer managing servers using a desktop-like interface.
    • Recommended for environments where GUI-based tools are required.

  • Server Core:

    • A minimal installation option without a GUI.
    • Reduces resource usage and attack surface.
    • Managed primarily through the command line, PowerShell, or remote tools like Windows Admin Center.
    • Ideal for advanced users or scenarios where performance and security are critical.

Understanding these options will help you tailor your Windows Server installation to your specific use case.

Conclusion

Getting started with Windows Server involves understanding its interface, installing roles and features, managing users, and configuring networking. By mastering these basics, you’ll be well on your way to effectively managing your server. For more advanced topics, explore the official Windows Server documentation.