Windows Server Core offers a highly efficient, low-maintenance server solution, perfect for any organization that values functionality, performance, and security. It comes as a “minimal installation” version of Windows Server, focusing on core server roles and facilitating command-line administration. In this step-by-step tutorial, we will guide you through the process of implementing Windows Server Core.
Tutorial for Implementing Windows Server Core
Download and Install Windows Server Core
Firstly, you need to acquire the necessary installation files for Windows Server Core. You can download the files directly from the official Microsoft website. Follow this link to the download page: Windows Server Core Download.
After downloading the ISO, you need to create a bootable device. You can use the “Rufus” tool to create a bootable USB drive. Download Rufus from this link.
Once the bootable device is ready, insert it into your server, restart, and choose to boot from the device. Follow the prompts, select “Windows Server Core” when asked which edition you want to install, and complete the installation.
Configure Windows Server Core
Once installed, Windows Server Core will present a command-line interface (CLI). You’ll use this interface to configure the system.
First, let’s set the system’s IP address. Suppose we want to set the IP address to 192.168.1.10. Enter the following command:
New-NetIPAddress -IPAddress 192.168.1.10 -PrefixLength 24 -DefaultGateway 192.168.1.1
Next, set the DNS address. If your DNS server’s IP is 192.168.1.2, use the following command:
Set-DnsClientServerAddress -InterfaceIndex 2 -ServerAddresses 192.168.1.2
Install Server Roles
Windows Server Core is designed for running server roles. Let’s install the Active Directory Domain Services role as an example. Enter the following command:
Install-WindowsFeature AD-Domain-Services -IncludeManagementTools
After the installation completes, you’ll see a list of installed features with AD-Domain-Services marked as ‘Installed’.
Configure Active Directory
To configure Active Directory, you’ll use the Install-ADDSForest command. If you want your domain name to be “example.com”, use this command:
Install-ADDSForest -DomainName "example.com"
Follow the prompts, and the Active Directory will be set up.
Manage Your Server Remotely
For a more graphical management experience, you can use the Windows Admin Center. Download it from this link. Install it on a Windows 10 machine and connect to your Server Core for a remote, GUI-based management experience.
Conclusion on Deploying Windows Server Core
Windows Server Core offers an efficient, lightweight server solution. It may have a learning curve due to its command-line interface, but it compensates by offering superior performance and security. By following this guide, you’ll be able to install and configure Windows Server Core successfully.
Related Articles
