Considered ideal for small- to medium-sized businesses, Windows Server 2022 starts with Windows 2019 features while improving performance and stability, including more advanced security and protection for your server. Microsoft announced the update in 2021 and intends to support Windows Server 2022 for the next decade with mainstream support ending in 2026, and extended support ending in 2031.
Here’s what you should know as you prepare to install, download, and configure Windows Server 2022.
New Features and Improvements
As the latest iteration, Windows Server 2022 reflects Microsoft’s commitment to improving security while making it more straightforward and offering higher-level protection features. Among them include:
- HTTPS and TLS 1.3 secure clients’ data by offering a greater degree of encryption.
- DNS queries have HTTPS encryption, thanks to DNS-over-HTTPS (DoH) support.
- Nested virtualization is available for AMD CPUs.
- Microsoft Edge replaces Internet Explorer as the default web browser.
- Microsoft's enhanced security features protect data against various attacks, implementing a multi-layered system.
- Integration with Azure and other cloud applications.
- HotPatching streamlines the update process for Windows Server Azure Edition virtual machines (VMs).
- Microsoft improved functionality for Windows Containers, the Windows Admin Center, and UDP/TCP.
Hardware Requirements
Whether you’re intending to install Windows Server 2022 in a physical or virtual environment, the hardware requires:
- A 1.4 GHz 64-bit processor compatible with x64 and support for NX, DEP, CMPXCHG16b, LAHF/SAHF, and PrefetchW
- 512 MB of RAM or 2GB if installing the Desktop Experience
- A minimum of 32GB of disk space (more may be needed for the Desktop Experience)
- Error Correcting Code (ECC) technology
- 1 GB/second ethernet cable adapter compliant with PCI Express architecture standards
- UEFI 2.3.1c system and firmware
- Device and monitor can handle a 1024 x 768 or higher resolution
- Trusted Platform Module
Downloading Windows Server 2022
Sign up at Microsoft’s Windows Insider page to access the ISO. The ISO includes all optical disc files for downloading. You can create a boot image from here that lets you install the server’s updated operating system. You will have multiple options for downloading the ISO. Select one and hit “continue.”
To download the Windows Server 2022 ISO image, you will see an option to fill out all information. Microsoft may review this information for verification, so attempt to be as accurate as possible.
The download process can take a few hours. Ensure you have a secure internet connection, or you will have to start the process again.
Other Options
Another option is downloading the ISO from the Microsoft Evaluation Center. You must activate this version within 10 days or face usage blocks. Should you go this route, select “Download the ISO” and follow all prompts for information and language.
You can also download Windows Server 2022 through MSDN. You will need to generate a new key to start the installation process. After, save the ISO file to your computer.
As a fourth option, you can download Windows Server 2022 from Microsoft VLSC (Volume Licensing Service Center). You will need access to the VLCS portal. Search for Server 2022 and follow all prompts to download the ISO.
Installing Windows Server 2022
To install Windows Server onto a physical host, you must first create a bootable ISO image. Follow Microsoft’s steps to complete this process.
Aside from using a physical host or virtual solution, you must choose from three editions: Standard, Essential, or Datacenter, based on features, licensing, and how you intend to use Windows Server 2022. After careful evaluation, you might find that the Windows Server 2022 Datacenter edition better suits your business needs than the Standard edition.
Additionally, you will need to choose between two installation options:
- Server Core: This is the smaller of the two options, involving a more straightforward installation procedure of command prompts. You will receive the key aspects and support of the Windows Server but will not have access to a local graphical user interface (GUI). Deployments are conducted remotely. This format benefits small businesses looking to conserve storage space.
- Desktop Experience: Installation is more comprehensive, larger, and includes a GUI. The Desktop Experience is ideal for medium-sized and larger organizations.
Server Core Installation
For this more minimal edition, you will need to:
- Turn on your physical or virtual server.
- Launch the installation process by pressing any key on the keyboard.
- Follow all installation prompts, including selecting a language and clicking on “Install Now.”
- Following, select the edition you intend to install.
- You will need to select a server option in the subsequent prompt.
- Read and agree to all licensing terms.
- If installing the product completely brand new, select “Custom: Install Windows Microsoft Server Operating System only.” If you are upgrading your current server environment, select “Upgrade: Install Microsoft Windows Server Operating System and keep files, settings, and applications” instead.
- To install Windows Server 2022, you will need to select a partition, create a new one, or use the full drive.
- You will have the option to format or delete the partition. If so, follow these steps. If not, click “Next” to proceed.
- You will select the hard disk to install the system. Select the disk size.
- At this stage, installation of all standard system files takes place. After, the system will automatically reboot to complete the installation process once you hit “Next.”
- Once the system installation finishes, you will create an Administrator password. Create and then re-type your password.
- From here, you will arrive at the server’s interface.
Desktop Experience Installation
This process overlaps with the Server Core instructions described above. You will follow all the steps to create an Administrator password. Then, to access the GUI:
- Head to the login screen.
- Enter the password you just set up.
- The Server Manager will launch automatically.
- You can review full details through the server’s dashboard or control panel.
Additional Considerations
Although all the steps described above help you set up the Windows Server 2022, you should further take into account:
- Making Updates: Access Settings and Update and Security to check for and install updates periodically.
- Configuring your network: This step helps the server and network to communicate, allowing for remote management.
- Renaming the server: This will be under About My PC > “Windows Specifications.” Click on “Rename This PC” to give your server a name. After, you will restart the server.
- Pricing: Before finalizing your setup, it’s essential to consider the Microsoft Windows Server 2022 Standard price and the pricing of other editions. Understanding the cost implications will help you budget accordingly and ensure that this edition aligns with your financial planning.
Seamlessly Install Windows Server 2022 with Trusted Tech Team
Installing Windows Server 2022 is a straightforward process that requires you to follow the proper steps ensuring your server environment is set up securely and efficiently. Each step is crucial in building a reliable IT infrastructure tailored to your organization’s needs, from preparing your hardware to configuring roles and features.
Whether you’re upgrading from a previous version or deploying Windows Server 2022 for the first time, our experts are ready to provide guidance, troubleshooting, and licensing assistance. Schedule a consultation today.
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