How To Install Windows Server 8 (Windows Server 2012)

Since long Windows Server 2012 has been anticipated by IT professionals, so that they can test out the extravagant new features that enable more scalable and robust server management, with integration of cloud based features.  In this post we will walk you through each step involved in the installation of Windows Server 8, followed by an installation video created by us for our readers.

Before installing Windows Server 8, check out the system requirements and pre-installation information. If you would like to know the various methods by which you can convert the Windows Server 8 ISO into a bootable DVD or USB, check out this post: How To Install Windows Server 8 From USB.

Step 1: Download Windows Server 8

Step 2: Boot your system from the Windows Server 8 DVD or USB drive

Boot

Step 3: Select your Language, Time and Currency Format, as well as Keyboard layout or leave the options to default. Click Next to continue.

Select Language

Step 4: Select an installation type. For example, you can install Windows Server 8 with either the core components or “Server with a GUI”.

Installation Type

Step 5: In the next step, select an installation method, i.e. Custom or Upgrade (e.g. to upgrade from your existing Windows operating system on the same partition). Custom install can be used for a number of reasons, including a wipe and load installation or dual boot.

Step 6: Select a partition to install Windows Server 8

Note: Make sure that you select a partition with at least 32 GB of hard disk space.

Step 7: This will begin the installation process on the selected partition.

Installing Windows Server 8

Your system will restart several times during the installation process.

Restart

Step 8: Once the installation is complete, you will be presented with first run settings, including the selection of a password for your account.

Account

Once you have configured your first-run settings, just login to your Windows Server 8 account.

Login Screen

Thankfully, you are taken to the classic desktop by default and not the Metro Start Screen.

Classic Desktop

However, you can hit the Win key or use the Charms Bar to use the Metro Start Menu.

Metro Start Screen

Also check out the below video, for a walk through of the above mentioned process. Like all WML Cloud videos, you can also watch this video on our WML Cloud YouTube Channel. How To Install Windows Server 2012 On VirtualBox