Windows Server 2025 - Definitive Guide

Windows Server 2025

Windows Server 2025, released on November 1, 2024, is the latest version of Microsoft's server operating system. This version introduces several significant improvements in performance, security, and management, aiming to meet the needs of modern IT infrastructures.

Hardware Requirements

To ensure a successful installation of Windows Server 2025, the hardware must meet the following minimum requirements:

• Processor (CPU):

  • Minimum speed of 1.4 GHz.
  • 64-bit architecture compatible with the x64 instruction set.
  • Support for DEP (Data Execution Prevention) and NX (No-Execute).
  • Compatibility with CMPXCHG16b, LAHF/SAHF, and PrefetchW instructions.
  • Support for Second Level Address Translation (EPT or NPT).
  • Compatibility with the SSE4.2 instruction set.
  • Support for the POPCNT instruction.

• RAM Memory:

  • Minimum of 512 MB for Server Core installation.
  • Minimum of 2 GB for the version with Desktop Experience; 4 GB is recommended.
  • ECC memory or similar technology is recommended for physical deployments.

• Storage:

  • Minimum of 32 GB on the system partition.
  • Storage devices must be compatible with the PCI Express specification; the use of PATA, ATA, IDE, or EIDE is not supported for boot, page, or data drives.

• Network Adapter:

  • Ethernet adapter with a minimum capacity of 1 Gbps.
  • Compatible with the PCI Express specification.

• Other Requirements:

  • UEFI 2.3.1c system and firmware that supports Secure Boot.
  • Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 2.0, required for features such as BitLocker Drive Encryption.
  • Graphics device and monitor with a minimum resolution of 1024 x 768 pixels.
  • Compatible keyboard and mouse.
  • Internet access for updates and product activation.

Installation Procedure

Windows Server 2025 installation can be performed physically or virtually. Below is a step-by-step guide for installation in a physical environment:

1. Preparation:

   • Obtain the Windows Server 2025 installation media, which can be a DVD or an ISO image.
   • Create a bootable device (USB or DVD) from the ISO image if necessary.

2. Starting the Installation:

   • Insert the bootable device into the server and restart it.
   • Access the boot menu (usually by pressing a key like F12 during startup) and select the appropriate device.

3. Initial Configuration:

   • Select the desired language, time format, and keyboard layout.
   • Click "Next," then "Install Now."

4. Edition Selection:

   • Choose the Windows Server 2025 edition you want to install (e.g., Standard or Datacenter).
   • Accept the license terms and click "Next."

5. Installation Type:

   • Select "Custom Installation" for a clean installation.

6. Disk Selection:

   • Choose the disk where the system will be installed.
   • If necessary, create or format partitions as desired.

7. Installation Process:

   • Click "Next" to start the installation.
   • The installation process will begin; wait for it to complete.

8. Post-Installation Configuration:

   • After installation, set the administrator account password.
   • Restart the server and log in with the administrator account.

9. Additional Configuration:

   • Configure network settings, server name, and other necessary configurations.
   • Install the latest updates and required drivers.

For a visual demonstration of the installation process, you can watch the following video:

Keep in mind that hardware requirements may vary depending on the roles and services you intend to implement on the server. It is always recommended to refer to Microsoft's official documentation for detailed and updated information.

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