Windows Server 2012/R2 Installation Planning

Planning a Windows Server 2012/R2 Installation

• Installation planning varies by network size—small networks need minimal decisions, while larger networks require careful integration planning.
• Hardware considerations include CPU type (AMD or Intel), up to 64 physical CPUs for servers, and the choice between 32-bit and 64-bit processors.
• Virtualization extensions are necessary for running Hyper-V.
• Research the disk subsystem technologies (FAT, NTFS) before installation.
• Unique server naming is required, incorporating descriptions related to location or purpose.
• Windows Server 2012/R2 installs both TCP/IPv4 and TCP/IPv6 by default; static IP addresses are recommended.
• Correct time zone settings are critical for user authentication.
• Choosing between workgroup or domain networks influences resource management and server capabilities.

Performing a Clean Installation

• A clean installation involves installing the OS on a new disk partition rather than upgrading; typically initiated via DVD.
• Ensure BIOS is configured to prioritize CD/DVD drive booting when installing.
• The installation process usually requires two system restarts.
• Post-installation, setting a strong Administrator password is mandatory, utilizing a mix of character types.

Postinstallation Tasks

• Activation of Windows Server 2012 R2 generally occurs automatically, needing completion within 10 days if not.
• Assign the correct date, time, and time zone, along with a static IP address and computer name.
• Enable automatic updates and install available updates promptly.

Installing Updates

• Patches and service packs address bugs and security vulnerabilities and are generally installed through Windows Update.
• A service pack consolidates all updates and fixes into a comprehensive package.

Expanding Your Network

• Deciding on server roles is crucial when adding a new server; it can be a domain controller (DC), read-only domain controller (RODC), or simply a member server.
• Reasons for adding servers include company growth, server load management, application isolation, and fault tolerance.
• Servers in branch offices can ease WAN traffic and improve authentication efficiency within the network.

Server Core Features

• Server Core is ideal for environments requiring minimal resource usage, such as secondary DCs, branch office servers, or single role servers (DNS, DHCP, etc.).
• It is not recommended for the first server installation, for tasks requiring extensive GUI use, or when the administrator lacks command-line experience.

Summary of Installation Process

• Most effort in installing Windows Server 2012/R2 is on planning, with DVD installations being standard for single-server setups.
• Essential postinstallation tasks encompass server naming, network configuration, and Windows Update management.
• Server roles can be installed after initial setup is complete.

Feature on Demand

• Feature on Demand allows the removal of Windows feature installation files from local storage, optimizing system resources.

Installing Windows Server 2012/R2

• Planning is essential; smaller networks require fewer decisions compared to larger ones which need detailed integration strategies.
• Hardware considerations for installation include CPU architecture (AMD or Intel), type of processors (workstation vs. server), and supporting up to 64 physical CPUs.
• Choose between 32-bit and 64-bit processors; Windows Server 2012/R2 only supports 64-bit.
• Virtualization extensions in the CPU are necessary for running Hyper-V.
• Disk subsystem research is critical to understand drive technologies like FAT and NTFS.
• Evaluate hot-add/hot-replace capabilities for adding memory or CPU without system downtime.

Installation Considerations

• Assign a unique server name that reflects its location or purpose for easy identification.
• Network protocols TCP/IPv4 and TCP/IPv6 are installed by default; assign a static IP address for server reliability.
• Correct time zone settings are crucial for user authentication processes.
• Decide between a workgroup or domain; workgroups suit smaller setups while domains offer more advantages.
• Server roles determine functionality and services provided to users.

Clean Installation Process

• A clean installation involves setting up the OS on a new disk partition, not upgrading from a previous version.
• Ensure BIOS is configured to boot from the relevant CD/DVD drive.
• Installation typically requires two system restarts and setting an Administrator password that meets complexity requirements.
• Upon completion, log in to Server Manager for further configurations.

Postinstallation Tasks

• Activating Windows Server 2012 R2 usually happens automatically; if not, activation is required within 10 days.
• Essential post-installation tasks include configuring date, time, static IP, computer name, and automatic updates.
• Download and install all available updates to secure the server.

Installing Updates

• Patches fix bugs and security vulnerabilities and can be installed via Windows Update.
• Service packs encapsulate all previous bug fixes and security updates, ensuring the server runs smoothly.

Expanding Your Network

• Adding a new server may involve making it a domain controller (DC) to enhance redundancy and load balance within an existing domain.
• A read-only domain controller (RODC) can be beneficial for branch offices, improving local authentication and reducing WAN traffic.
• Factors leading to server expansion include company growth, excessive server load, the need for application isolation, fault tolerance needs, and branch office demands.

Server Core Features

• Server Core configuration is suitable for secondary DCs, branch office servers, or roles like DNS and DHCP, optimizing resource usage.
• Avoid using Server Core as the first network server or if GUI tools are essential for management.

General Summary

• Windows Server 2012/R2 installation is straightforward but requires thorough planning and execution.
• Postinstallation setups involve naming the server, configuring network settings, selecting a network model, and updating the system.
• Additional servers within a network can serve various roles based on specific needs.
• Feature on Demand allows for the removal of unnecessary installation files, optimizing system performance.