How to Setup Windows Server 2019 Download

Why Choose Windows Server 2019?

Microsoft Windows Server 2019 is packed with features that make it a powerful solution for businesses of all sizes:

• Enhanced Security: Features like Windows Defender ATP, Shielded VMs, and Secure Core Server help protect against modern threats.
• Hybrid Capabilities with Azure: Seamlessly integrate with Microsoft Azure for backup, disaster recovery, and enhanced cloud functionalities.
• Flexible Application Platform: Support for Linux containers and Kubernetes.

Editions of Windows Server 2019 🎛️

Before you download Windows Server 2019, it's essential to choose the right edition for your needs:

1. Windows Server 2019 Standard

   • Ideal for physical or minimally virtualized environments.
   • Key Features: Hyper-V, Storage Spaces Direct, ReFS, and software-defined networking.
   • Use Case: Small to medium businesses with limited virtualization needs.

2. Windows Server 2019 Datacenter

   • Best for highly virtualized datacenters and cloud environments.
   • Key Features: Unlimited virtual machines, Shielded VMs, Storage Spaces Direct, and more.
   • Use Case: Large enterprises requiring extensive virtualization and advanced features.

3. Windows Server 2019 Essentials

   • Tailored for small businesses with up to 25 users and 50 devices.
   • Key Features: Simplified management interface, no Client Access Licenses (CALs) required.
   • Use Case: Small businesses with basic server needs.

Preparing for Installation 🛠️

System Requirements

Ensure your hardware meets the minimum requirements for Windows Server 2019:

• Processor: 64-bit processor with a minimum clock speed of 1.4 GHz.
• Memory: At least 2 GB of RAM; 16 GB is recommended for optimal performance.
• Disk Space: Minimum 32 GB, but 40 GB or more is recommended for future updates.
• Network: Gigabit Ethernet adapter.
• Firmware: Secure Boot capable.

Downloading the ISO

1. Visit the Official Microsoft Website: Navigate to the Windows Server 2019 download page.
2. Select the Desired Edition: Choose from Standard, Datacenter, or Essentials.
3. Download the ISO File: Save the file to your computer.

Download Windows Server 2019 ISO

Installation Steps 🧑‍💻

Creating Bootable Media

To install Windows Server 2019, you'll need to create a bootable USB drive:

1. Download a Tool: Use a tool like Rufus to create bootable media.
2. Select the ISO File: Choose the downloaded Windows Server 2019 ISO.
3. Create the Bootable USB: Follow the prompts to prepare your installation media.

Installing Windows Server 2019

1. Boot from USB: Insert the bootable USB into your server and restart. Access the boot menu to select the USB drive.
2. Setup Language and Preferences: Choose your language, time, and keyboard settings, then click "Next."
3. Install Now: Click "Install Now" to begin the installation process.
4. Select Edition: Choose the edition of Windows Server 2019 that matches your license.
5. Accept License Terms: Read and accept the Microsoft license terms.
6. Custom Installation: Select "Custom" to perform a fresh installation.
7. Partition the Drive: Choose the disk where you want to install Windows Server 2019.
8. Begin Installation: Click "Next" to start the installation. The server will reboot several times.

Post-Installation Configuration

1. Set Administrator Password: Create a strong password for the administrator account.
2. Activate Windows Server: Use the following commands to activate your edition:
   • Standard: Dism /online /Set-Edition:ServerStandard /AcceptEula /ProductKey:XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX
   • Datacenter: Dism /online /Set-Edition:ServerDatacenter /AcceptEula /ProductKey:XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX
   • Essentials: slmgr.vbs /ipk XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX

Configuring Roles and Features 🛡️

After installing Windows Server 2019, you can start configuring roles and features to meet your organization's needs:

1. Open Server Manager: The Server Manager dashboard opens automatically.
2. Add Roles and Features: Use the wizard to add roles like Active Directory, DNS, DHCP, or IIS.
3. Install Hyper-V: For virtualization, install and configure Hyper-V.

Licensing and Activation 🎟️

Purchasing a License

Depending on your needs, you can purchase a license for Windows Server 2019:

• Standard License: Suitable for environments with minimal virtualization.
• Datacenter License: Ideal for extensive virtualization and advanced features.

Buy Windows Server 2019 Standard License

Activation Process

Ensure your Windows Server 2019 license is activated to use all features:

1. Open Command Prompt: Run as administrator.
2. Enter Activation Key: Use the slmgr.vbs command with your product key.
3. Verify Activation: Confirm that your server is activated and running.