Windows Server Operating Systems Analysis

Operating Systems Overview

• Windows 10/11 are designed primarily for desktop use but can perform server functions like file and printer sharing.
• Server operating systems focus on network performance and running background processes over desktop applications.

Windows Server 2012/R2 Network Services

• Includes features such as:
  • File and Printer sharing
  • Web server capabilities
  • Routing and Remote Access Services (RRAS)
  • Domain Name System (DNS)
  • Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP)
  • File Transfer Protocol (FTP) Server
  • Active Directory for resource management
  • Distributed File System (DFS) for file storage
  • Hyper-V for virtualization

Comparison: Windows 10 vs. Windows Server 2012/R2

• Windows 10 supports only a limited version of server functionalities:
  • Hyper-V
  • File and Printer Sharing
  • Web Server
  • FTP Server (limited to 20 logged-on users)
• Windows Server 2012/R2 offers advanced features like:
  • Fault tolerance with RAID 5
  • Load balancing

Editions of Windows Server 2012/R2

• Four streamlined editions aimed at different business needs:
  • Datacenter
  • Standard
  • Essential
  • Foundation

Datacenter Edition

• Allows installation of an unlimited number of virtual OS instances.
• Utilizes a hypervisor to create and monitor virtual hardware.

Cloud Computing Models

• Public Cloud: Services provided by third parties (e.g., Dropbox, Google Apps).
• Private Cloud: Services hosted by an internal IT department, offering virtual desktops and applications.
• Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI): Users access their desktops remotely via a web browser or client software.

Core Technologies in Windows Server 2012/R2

• Key components include:
  • Server Manager for role management and diagnostics
  • Active Directory for centralized network resource management
  • Microsoft Management Console for remote server management
  • Disk Management for handling storage and volumes
  • Advanced file and printer sharing features (e.g., shadow copies, disk quotas).

Networking Concepts

• Workgroup Model: Suited for small setups (fewer than 10 computers), featuring decentralized logons and sharing.
• Domain Model: Preferred for larger networks, requiring a domain controller that manages security and resource access.

Active Directory Domain Services (AD DS)

• Installs Active Directory to enhance authentication and authorization for network users and computers.

DHCP and DNS Servers

• DHCP Server: Automates IP address assignment and configuration for clients.
• DNS Server: Resolves network names to IP addresses, crucial in domain setups.

Hyper-V

• Enables creation and management of virtual machines, mimicking hardware environment requirements for OS installation.

Remote Access Features

• Supports configurations for VPN and Direct Access, providing secure connectivity for remote users.

Windows Deployment Services

• Facilitates network-based installation and remote configuration of Windows systems.

New Features in Windows Server 2012/R2

• Enhancements include Server Core, Minimal Server Interface, PowerShell, Storage Spaces, and IP Address Management (IPAM).

PowerShell Overview

• A command-line interface for managing server tasks with numerous cmdlets available for various administrative functions.

IP Address Management (IPAM)

• Tools for monitoring and managing DHCP and DNS servers, enabling IP address usage audits and tracking changes.

Conclusion

• A server's definition is largely determined by its operating software and the services it provides.

Operating Systems Overview

• Windows 10/11 and predecessors primarily designed for desktop usage.
• Desktop OS can perform limited server functions like file and printer sharing.
• Server operating systems focus on enhancing network access and managing background processes.

Windows Server 2012/R2 Network Services

• Provides services including:
  • File and Printer Sharing
  • Web Server
  • Routing and Remote Access Services (RRAS)
  • Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP)
  • Domain Name System (DNS)
  • File Transfer Protocol (FTP) Server
  • Active Directory
  • Distributed File System (DFS)
  • Hyper-V for virtualization.

Comparison of Windows 10 and Windows Server

• Windows 10 supports:
  • Limited Hyper-V functionality
  • File/Printer sharing
  • Web server and FTP server, restricted to 20 concurrent users.
• Windows Server 2012/R2 offers robust features like:
  • Fault-tolerance (e.g. RAID 5 volumes)
  • Load balancing for enhanced reliability.

Editions of Windows Server 2012/R2

• Four streamlined editions available:
  • Datacenter: Unlimited virtual instances permitted.
  • Standard: For general business needs.
  • Essential: Entry-level for small business, limited to 15 users.
  • Foundation: Supports single processor and up to 32 GB RAM, no Hyper-V support.

Cloud Computing and Virtualization

• Cloud computing abstracts resources like applications and storage for users.
• Virtualization emulates hardware environments allowing multiple OSs to run on a single server.
• Virtual machines (VMs) behave like physical computers.

Public vs Private Cloud

• Public Cloud: Services delivered by third parties (e.g., Dropbox, Google Apps).
• Private Cloud: Managed internally, offering services like virtual desktops and storage.
• Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI): Enables access to desktops via the Internet.

Key Technologies in Windows Server 2012/R2

• Server Manager: Central interface for managing server roles and configurations.
• Active Directory: Centralized management for network resources, provides authentication and permissions.
• Microsoft Management Console: Connects and manages multiple servers remotely.
• Disk Management: For managing disk volume configurations and space.

File and Printer Sharing Features

• Advanced features include:
  • Shadow copies for backup.
  • Disk quotas to limit user storage.
  • Distributed File System (DFS) for easier file access management.

Networking Concepts

• Workgroup Model: Peer-to-peer network for small groups (up to 10 users), decentralized management.
• Domain Model: Suitable for larger networks needing centralized security; requires domain controller running Active Directory.

Active Directory Domain Services (AD DS)

• Installs Active Directory, turning Windows Server into a domain controller.
• Responsible for user and computer authentication within the domain.

DHCP and DNS Servers

• DHCP Server: Automatically assigns IP addresses to clients, configures network settings.
• DNS Server: Resolves domain names to IP addresses, critical for Active Directory integration.

Hyper-V Functionality

• Manages virtual machines, simulating hardware for OS installations.
• Uses traditional installation methods similar to physical machines.

Remote Access Capabilities

• Configures server as a VPN for secure user connections.
• DirectAccess allows secure entry to a company network over the Internet.

Datacenter and Standard Editions

• Datacenter Edition requires one license for every two physical processors.
• Standard Edition offers all Datacenter features but allows only two virtual instances.
• Both editions support up to 4 TB of RAM and 64 physical processors.
• Server clusters can reach up to 64 nodes.
• Installation without GUI available through Server Core, which is the default mode.
• Client Access Licenses (CALs) are mandatory for users accessing the server.

Essential Edition

• Designed for small businesses with 25 or fewer users.
• Automatically serves as a root domain controller.
• Configures services like Active Directory, DNS, and Web Server (IIS) automatically.
• Offers a management interface called Dashboard, with no CAL requirements.

Foundation Edition

• Entry-level edition suitable for small businesses.
• Available only as an Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) version.
• Supports a maximum of 15 users with no CALs needed.
• Limited to a single physical processor and 32 GB of RAM.
• Can be configured as a stand-alone server but does not support Hyper-V.

Cloud Computing and Virtualization

• Cloud computing abstracts application delivery, storage, and network resources.
• Virtualization permits multiple operating systems to operate on the same physical server.
• Virtual machines emulate physical computer hardware and BIOS functionality.
• Host computer refers to the physical machine hosting virtual machines.

Microsoft Management Console

• Provides a centralized management interface for administrators.
• Enables remote connections to servers.

Disk Management

• Essential tool for managing disks and volumes in Windows Server 2012/R2.

File and Printer Sharing

• Includes advanced features like shadow copies, disk quotas, and Distributed File System (DFS).

Networking Concepts

• The Workgroup Model is a decentralized setup suitable for fewer than 10 computers.
• The Domain Model is optimized for larger networks requiring centralized management, necessitating a domain controller.

Network Components

• Network connection comprises networking components functioning collectively.
• Network Interface consists of the network interface card (NIC) and its driver.
• Network Protocol defines communication rules between devices.

Windows Server Roles

• Server roles define major server functions, while role services enhance these roles.
• A server can serve one or multiple roles depending on configuration.

Active Directory Certificate Services

• Issues and manages digital certificates for secure communications.

Active Directory Domain Services

• Turns a server into a domain controller, facilitating authentication and authorization in domains.

DHCP Server

• Automatically assigns IP addresses and configurations to client computers.

DNS Server

• Resolves names of Internet and domain computers to IP addresses.
• Can operate in conjunction with Active Directory installations.

Hyper-V

• Enables creation and management of virtual machines on Windows Server 2012/R2.
• Virtual machines are set up similarly to physical machines.

Remote Access

• Configures servers as VPN servers and routers.
• Direct Access allows secure connections for users over the Internet.

Operating Systems Overview

• Desktop operating systems like Windows 10/11 are designed primarily for personal computing but can support server functions, such as file and printer sharing.
• Server operating systems are optimized for network access, focusing on background processes rather than desktop applications.

Windows Server 2012/R2 Features

• Offers diverse network services, including:
  • File and Printer Sharing
  • Web Server capabilities
  • Routing and Remote Access Services (RRAS)
  • Domain Name System (DNS)
  • Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP)
  • File Transfer Protocol (FTP) Server
  • Active Directory management
  • Distributed File System (DFS)
  • Hyper-V for virtualization

Comparison of Server and Desktop OS

• Windows 10 supports limited server functions, restricted to a maximum of 20 concurrent users.
• Windows Server 2012/R2 includes advanced features like fault tolerance via RAID 5 and load balancing.

Windows Server 2012/R2 Editions

• Available editions: Datacenter, Standard, Essential, and Foundation, tailored to business sizes and needs.
• Datacenter Edition allows unlimited virtual instances while Standard Edition is limited to two virtual instances but shares core features.

Datacenter and Standard Editions Specifications

• Both editions support up to 4 TB of RAM and 64 physical processors, with support for server clusters up to 64 nodes.
• Can be installed without a standard GUI in Server Core mode.
• Requires Client Access Licenses (CALs) for every user accessing the server.

Essential Edition Details

• Designed for small businesses (≤ 25 users) with automatic configuration as a root domain controller.
• Comes with preconfigured services such as Active Directory, DNS, and Web Server.
• No CALs required and includes a management dashboard.

Public vs. Private Cloud

• Public cloud services (e.g., Dropbox, Google Apps) are offered by third parties.
• Private cloud services are internal, typically managed by an IT department, facilitating virtual desktops and storage accessible from any internet connection.

Core Technologies in Windows Server 2012/R2

• Key components include Server Manager, Active Directory, Microsoft Management Console, Disk Management, file sharing, and Windows networking.

Server Manager Functionality

• Centralized interface for managing server roles, diagnosing issues, and performing configuration tasks across networked servers.

Active Directory Role

• Centralizes user administration, authentication, and network resource management, working alongside DNS for domain services.

Windows Network Components

• Network connections involve network interface cards (NIC) and device driver software.
• Network protocols define communication rules and formats between devices.

Roles and Features in Windows Server

• Server roles provide major functions, with role services adding specific functions, while server features enhance installed roles.
• Servers can perform multiple roles simultaneously.

Active Directory Certificate Services (AD CS)

• Facilitates creation, issuance, and management of digital certificates, enhancing security for user connections.

Windows Deployment Services (WDS)

• Streamlines network-based Windows installations, allowing mass deployment of Windows OS across an enterprise network.

New and Enhanced Features in Windows Server 2012/R2

• Notable features include Server Core, Minimal Server Interface, PowerShell, Storage Spaces, Resilient File System (ReFS), IP Address Management (IPAM), and Dynamic Access Control.

PowerShell Capabilities

• PowerShell offers a command-line environment for management tasks, featuring hundreds of cmdlets for system administration and Active Directory management.

IP Address Management (IPAM) Functions

• Tools for monitoring and managing DHCP and DNS operations, auditing IP address usage, and automatic discovery of network components.

Summary

• A server's identity primarily stems from the software operating on its hardware, defining its role in the network and the services it provides.

Function of a Server Operating System

• Server operating systems facilitate network services essential for business operations.
• The specific functions of servers depend on the size and technology commitment of the organization.

Server versus Desktop Operating Systems

• A computer is classified as a server when it runs software that provides network services.
• Windows Server OS is optimized for network performance and background processes, unlike desktop OSs like Windows 10/11.
• Server network services include file sharing, web serving, DNS, DHCP, FTP server, Active Directory, and Hyper-V.

Windows Server 2012/R2 Editions

• Editions include Datacenter, Standard, Essential, and Foundation, offering tailored solutions for various business sizes.

Datacenter and Standard Editions

• Datacenter Edition allows unlimited virtual instances; requires a license for every two physical processors.
• Standard Edition supports only two virtual instances with all features of Datacenter Edition.
• Both editions handle up to 4 TB of RAM and 64 physical processors, and server clusters supporting up to 64 nodes.
• Can operate in Server Core mode, providing a minimal interface, and require Client Access Licenses (CALs).

Essential and Foundation Editions

• Essential Edition focuses on small businesses with 25 or fewer users; provides automatic configuration as a root domain controller.
• Foundation Edition is intended for smaller businesses with up to 15 users, requires no CALs, supports a single processor, and max 32 GB RAM; it does not support Hyper-V.

Private Cloud Concepts

• Cloud computing involves technologies abstracting application and resource delivery.
• Virtualization is key to cloud computing, allowing multiple OS environments on one physical server.
• Host computers run virtual machines (VMs) using virtualization software, overseen by hypervisors.

Public vs. Private Cloud

• Public cloud services come from third-party providers; examples include Dropbox and Google Apps.
• Private cloud services are managed internally by an organization’s IT department, enabling services like virtual desktops and storage.
• Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) allows users to connect to the private cloud from any location via a browser or client software.

Core Technologies in Windows Server 2012/R2

• Key technologies include Server Manager, Active Directory, Microsoft Management Console, Disk Management, file and printer sharing, and Windows networking.

Server Manager

• A unified interface for server role installation, configuration, and removal.
• Provides diagnostic tools, storage management, and general server configuration capabilities.
• Allows management of all servers within a network.

Active Directory

• Offers centralized administration for network resources (users, groups, printers).
• Facilitates authentication and authorization for users accessing network resources.
• Works with DNS for domain-naming and management in a Windows domain.