Information Sheet 2.1-2
Topic: Installing Windows Server 2012 on SERVER-PC using Bootable USB
Learning Objectives
At the end of this lesson, you should be able to:
Identify the hardware and software requirements for Windows Server 2012.
Prepare a bootable USB installer.
Install Windows Server 2012 on SERVER-PC.
Perform basic post-installation configuration.
What is Windows Server 2012?
Windows Server 2012 is a server operating system developed by Microsoft, built on the Windows 8 core. It is designed for managing enterprise-level IT infrastructure and provides features such as:
Active Directory Domain Services (AD DS)
Hyper-V virtualization
File and Storage Services
Remote Desktop Services (RDS)
Server Manager Dashboard for centralized configuration
It is widely used in businesses, schools, and organizations for managing networks, domains, and server-based applications.
System Requirements
Processor: 1.4 GHz 64-bit processor (2 GHz or faster recommended)
RAM: 2 GB minimum (4 GB or more recommended)
Hard Drive: 40 GB minimum (80 GB recommended)
Bootable USB Installer containing the Windows Server 2012 ISO
Steps in Installing Windows Server 2012 Using Bootable USB
1. Prepare Bootable USB
Use tools like Rufus or Windows USB/DVD Download Tool.
Select the Windows Server 2012 ISO file.
Create the bootable USB drive.
2. Boot from USB
Insert the bootable USB into SERVER-PC.
Restart and press the BIOS/UEFI key (e.g., F2, F12, Del, or Esc).
Set USB drive as the first boot option.
Save changes and reboot.
3. Begin Setup
The Windows Server 2012 installation screen will appear.
Select Language, Time & Currency format, and Keyboard input method.
Click Next → Install Now.
4. Choose Edition
Select the appropriate edition (e.g., Standard, Datacenter).
Choose between Server Core (no GUI, command-line only) or Server with GUI.
Accept the license agreement → click Next.
5. Select Installation Type
Choose Custom: Install Windows only (advanced) to perform a clean install.
6. Partition the Hard Disk
On the Where do you want to install Windows? screen:
Select unallocated space.
Create or format partitions as needed.
Assign a partition for the operating system.
Click Next.
7. Installation Process
Windows will copy and expand files, install features, and restart multiple times.
Wait until installation is complete.
8. Initial Configuration
Set the Administrator password.
Log in using the new credentials.
9. Post-Installation Tasks
Install device drivers (if required).
Open Server Manager Dashboard.
Rename SERVER-PC (optional).
Configure network settings.
Add server roles and features (e.g., AD DS, DNS, DHCP).
Key Takeaways
Windows Server 2012 provides advanced server functions such as virtualization, domain management, and remote services.
Installing via bootable USB is faster and easier than DVDs.
Post-installation configuration is essential to prepare the server for network deployment.
REFERENCES:
https://community.spiceworks.com/t/windows-server-2016-2012r2-usb-boot-media/578704
How to Install Windows Server 2012 from USB Flash – ISO Image https://www.firewall.cx/operating-systems/microsoft/windows-servers/windows-2012-installation-from-usb-flash.html