> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://doc.engenius.ai/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://doc.engenius.ai/server-os-deployment-guide/os-installation/installing-windows-server.md).
# Installing Windows Server
With your server's firmware configured and the installation media mounted, you are ready to install the operating system. This chapter will guide you through the process of installing Windows Server using the virtual KVM and media features of the Management Interface (BMC).
## **Installation requirements**
Before you begin, make sure you have the following:
* **Windows Server ISO**: You should have the installation ISO file for your chosen version of Windows Server. If you need an evaluation copy, you can download one from the [Microsoft Evaluation Center](https://www.microsoft.com/evalcenter/evaluate-windows-server-2025).
* **Product Key**: Have your product key ready. For evaluation purposes, Microsoft often provides keys on their preview build announcement pages.
* **Virtual Media Mounted**: Ensure you have already mounted the Windows Server ISO file using the Virtual Media feature in the BMC, as covered in "[Initial Firmware Configuration](/server-os-deployment-guide/initial-server-setup/initial-firmware-configuration.md)".
## **Step-by-step installation guide**
From the KVM console, you will see the server boot from the mounted ISO file. The Windows Server installer will now load.
{% stepper %}
{% step %}
**Set Language, Time, and Keyboard Preferences**
On the first screen of the installer:
* Select your **preferred language**, **time format**, and **keyboard layout**
* Click **Next**
{% endstep %}
{% step %}
**Select Setup Option**
On the **Select setup option** screen:
* Ensure **“Install Windows Server”** is selected
* Click **Next**
{% endstep %}
{% step %}
**Enter Product Key**
When prompted:
* Enter your **Windows Server product key**
* Click **Next**
{% endstep %}
{% step %}
Choose the Operating System Edition
Select the specific **Windows Server image** you want to install:\
Options typically include **Standard** or **Datacenter** editions.
{% hint style="success" %}
**Best Practice: Choose the Desktop Experience.** For most general-purpose servers, especially if you're not an expert in command-line administration, choose the **(Desktop Experience)** version. This installs the full graphical user interface (GUI). The standard version (often called "Server Core") is a minimal installation managed only through the command line and is intended for specialized roles like Hyper-V hosts or DNS servers.
{% endhint %}
{% endstep %}
{% step %}
Accept License Terms
* Read the **Microsoft Software License Terms**
* Select **I accept the license terms**, then click **Next**
{% endstep %}
{% step %}
Choose Installation Location
When prompted to select a destination drive:
* Choose the **unallocated disk** where the OS should be installed
* Click **Next**
* The installer will automatically partition the disk
{% endstep %}
{% step %}
Confirm and Start Installation
On the final summary screen:
* Click **Install** to begin the installation process
{% endstep %}
{% step %}
**Wait for Installation to Complete**
The Windows Server installer will now:
* **Copy files**, **install features**, and **apply settings**
* This may take several minutes
* The server will **restart automatically** upon completion
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}
### **Finalize the configuration**
After the final reboot, you'll be prompted to set the administrator password.
1. Type and re-enter a strong password for the built-in Administrator account.
2. Click **Finish**.
You have now successfully installed Windows Server. You can log in using the password you just created.
## **Post-installation checks**
After logging in for the first time, it's a good practice to:
* **Verify Network Connectivity**: Open PowerShell and use ping to test connections to your gateway and an external site like google.com.
* **Install Drivers**: Check Device Manager for any hardware that requires specific drivers from the server manufacturer.
* **Run Windows Update**: Install the latest security patches and updates to ensure your system is secure.
---
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