To provision a Windows Server 2019 for initial deployment, you can follow these general steps:
1. Prepare Hardware and Software:
- Ensure that you have the necessary hardware resources (such as CPU, RAM, and storage) to run Windows Server 2019.
- Obtain a valid Windows Server 2019 installation ISO or DVD.
2. Configure BIOS/UEFI Settings:
- Access the BIOS or UEFI settings of the server.
- Configure the boot order to prioritize booting from the installation media (DVD or USB).
- Save the changes and exit the BIOS/UEFI settings.
3. Boot from Installation Media:
- Insert the Windows Server 2019 installation DVD or USB drive into the server.
- Restart the server to boot from the installation media.
4. Install Windows Server 2019:
- Follow the on-screen instructions to start the Windows Server 2019 installation process.
- Choose the language, time and currency format, and keyboard or input method preferences.
- Select "Install Now" to begin the installation.
5. Enter Product Key:
- Enter a valid product key for Windows Server 2019 when prompted. Alternatively, you can proceed with a trial version.
6. Accept License Terms:
- Read and accept the license terms to proceed with the installation.
7. Choose Installation Type:
- Select the installation type. You can choose between "Windows Server 2019 Standard" or "Windows Server 2019 Datacenter."
8. Select Installation Drive:
- Choose the drive or partition where you want to install Windows Server 2019.
9. Begin Installation:
- Wait for the installation process to complete. The server will restart several times during the installation.
10. Set Administrator Password:
- After the installation is complete and the server reboots, you will be prompted to set the administrator password.
11. Configure Network Settings:
- Set the IP address, subnet mask, default gateway, and DNS settings for the server.
12. Join Domain (Optional):
- If the server is part of a domain, join it to the domain.
13. Install Updates and Drivers:
- After the initial deployment, install any necessary updates and drivers for the server hardware.
14. Configure Server Roles and Features:
- Use Server Manager or PowerShell to install and configure server roles and features as needed for your environment.
15. Configure Security Settings:
- Implement security best practices, such as configuring firewall rules, enabling Windows Defender, and setting up user access controls.
16. Perform Regular Backups:
- Set up a backup solution to regularly back up critical data and configurations to ensure data integrity and disaster recovery readiness.
By following these steps, you can provision a Windows Server 2019 for initial deployment and configure it according to your organization's requirements.