5 Installation

Before installing the operating system

IMPORTANT:

Before powering up the server and configuring the operating system software, connect the server hardware as described in the server user guide. Do not install additional hardware devices until the software installation is complete.

After the installation of the operating system, if prompted for HP driver files, enter the path: C:\Drivers. Driver files are located in subdirectories in this path. To view the directory, click Browse.

To successfully complete the software installation, TCP/IP services must be installed, and the server must be connected to an active network connection.

For BIOS based Servers, Windows Server 2008 R2 wSP1 Standard, Windows Server 2012 Standard and Windows Server 2012 R2 Standard operating systems ship with three to four partitions: 1 GB, 20 GB, and 4 GB respectively. The 1 GB partition is system reserved and hidden. Do not delete or format this 1 GB system partition. The third partition is created for installation purposes, and it is deleted automatically during the initial operating system setup.

For UEFI based Servers, Windows Server 2012 Standard and Windows Server 2012 R2 Standard operating systems ship with five partitions: 300 MB, 1 GB, 128 MB, 20 GB and 4 GB respectively. The Recovery Partition 300 MB, EFI Partition 1 GB, MSR Partition 128 MB are system reserved and hidden. Do not delete or format these system partitions. The fifth partition is created for installation purposes, and it is deleted automatically during the initial operating system setup.

Installing the operating system

Windows Server 2008 R2 wSP1 standard/Windows Server 2012 Standard/Windows Server 2012 R2 Standard

To install Windows Server 2008 R2 wSP1 Standard/Windows Server 2012 Standard/Windows Server 2012 R2 Standard:

NOTE: The screenshots shown below are general representation and may not be for the specific operating system which has been installed on your server.

1.Power up the server.

2.You will be prompted to select the desired language under Regional Settings Page. Choose appropriate language and click Continue.

Before installing the operating system

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HP Microsoft Windows Server 2008 R2 Installation, Before installing the operating system, Installing the operating system

Microsoft Windows Server 2008 R2 specifications

HP Microsoft Windows Server 2008 R2 is a robust server operating system designed to provide enhanced performance and enhanced capabilities in IT infrastructure management. As a successor to Windows Server 2008, it brings a multitude of features that cater to the needs of businesses looking for reliability and efficiency in server operations.

One of the key features of Windows Server 2008 R2 is its improved scalability and performance. It supports up to 256 logical processors and 1 terabyte of RAM, making it well-suited for enterprise environments that require heavy workloads and high availability. This capability allows organizations to run large-scale applications and services with minimal downtime.

Windows Server 2008 R2 also introduces Hyper-V 2.0, an advanced virtualization technology that enables businesses to create and manage virtual machines. This technology allows for better resource utilization, as multiple virtual servers can run on a single physical server, reducing hardware costs and space requirements. Hyper-V supports live migration, which means virtual machines can be moved between physical servers without any disruption to services, enhancing load balancing and availability.

Another significant advancement is the introduction of the Remote Desktop Services (RDS), which improves the experience of accessing desktop applications remotely. With RDS, users can connect to their desktops and applications from virtually anywhere, maintaining productivity while working from different locations.

Windows Server 2008 R2 enhances security with several features such as BitLocker Drive Encryption, which helps protect data on physical drives by encrypting the entire volume. Additionally, the User Access Control (UAC) helps mitigate unauthorized changes by implementing a layered approach to security.

The operating system also incorporates updated networking features, including DirectAccess and BranchCache. DirectAccess allows remote users to connect to the internal network seamlessly without the need for traditional VPN, simplifying remote access and improving security. BranchCache optimizes bandwidth usage for users in branch offices by caching frequently accessed content.

Moreover, Windows Server 2008 R2 supports PowerShell 2.0, enabling administrators to automate tasks and manage server configurations efficiently. This scripting language improves administrative workflows and reduces the time required for routine management tasks.

In summary, HP Microsoft Windows Server 2008 R2 stands out due to its scalability, robust virtualization capabilities, advanced remote access solutions, and enhanced security features. It caters to the demands of modern businesses, creating an efficient, secure, and manageable IT infrastructure. For organizations looking for a reliable server operating system, Windows Server 2008 R2 remains a solid choice even in current technological advancements.