Quick Start Guide
Step 1 Install Windows Server 2012 If your computer came with Windows Server 2012 already installed, you can disregard Step 1. Installation Instructions For installation instructions, system requirements, and preinstallation tasks, see http://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/p/?LinkId=244440. You should also read the release notes for information about any critical known issues with the product at http://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/p/?LinkId=244442.
Installation Options - Server Core or GUI Option During Setup, you can choose either the Server Core installation option or the Server with a GUI option to install Windows Server 2012. The Server Core installation option is recommended.
When you select the Server Core installation option during Setup, only the files that are required for these server roles are installed. For example, Windows Explorer and Server Manager are not available with a Server Core installation. Therefore, you configure and manage the server locally from the command prompt or from another computer by using remote management tools. NOTE: You can switch between the Server Core option and the Server with a GUI option as needed at any time later.
Step 2 Configure Your Server During the Setup process, you are prompted to provide a password for the built-in Administrator account. After Setup, use Server Manager or Windows PowerShell locally or remotely to perform initial configuration of the server, including adding server roles and features and changing the server name, Windows Update settings, network settings, or domain membership if applicable.
Step 3 Deploy Windows Server 2012 Microsoft Deployment Toolkit Microsoft Deployment Toolkit (MDT) 2012 provides guidance and tools to help you quickly deploy Windows Server 2012. You can use MDT to create completely functional base servers that are ready for provisioning across an organization. You can also customize the MDT deployment process to install line-of-business applications for Windows Server 2003, Windows Server 2008, and Windows Server 2012.
Windows Deployment Services Windows Deployment Services is a server role in Windows Server 2012 that enables you to remotely deploy Windows operating systems. You can use it to set up new computers by using a network-based installation. This means that you do not have to install each operating system directly from a DVD or other installation media.
Getting Started Resources These links will help you with Windows Server 2012. Evaluate • TechNet Virtual Labs: http://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/p/?LinkId=248986 http://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/p/?LinkId=243062 Learn • Windows Server 2012 product information: http://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/p/?LinkId=246054 • Compare Windows Server 2012 editions: http://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/p/?LinkId=251499 • Windows Server 2012 TechCenter: http://go.microsoft.
Troubleshoot • Support Windows Server 2012 (see Understand and Troubleshoot Guides): http://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/p/?LinkId=246084 • TechNet Support: http://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/p/?LinkId=90728 • Perform Common Tasks: http://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/p/?LinkId=242147 Connect with Community • Microsoft Communities (forums, blogs, chats): http://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/p/?LinkId=7679 • Forums: http://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/p/?LinkId=248970 • Webcasts, Virtual Labs, and Podcasts: http://go.microsoft.
Windows Server Technical Library These links to the Technical Library will provide you with introductory information, technical overviews, and other resources. • Install, Deploy, and Migrate to Windows Server 2012: http://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/p/?LinkId=246082 • Server Roles and Technologies in Windows Server 2012: http://go.microsoft.
Additional Resources Security These links to prescriptive security guidance resources, virus alerts, and security bulletins will help you find the security information that you need. • TechNet Security Center: http://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/p/?LinkId=29482 • Microsoft Malware Protection Center: http://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/p/?LinkId=26702 • Microsoft Security Bulletin Search: http://go.microsoft.
Downloads, Help and Support, and Scripting These links will help you keep your systems current and learn about the latest Microsoft technologies. • Microsoft Download Center: http://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/p/?LinkId=63637 • Microsoft Help and Support: http://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/p/?LinkId=7588 • Script Center: http://go.microsoft.
Product Support IMPORTANT: If you purchased Windows Server 2012 through an Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM), please contact the manufacturer of your server for product support. Online • In the United States and Canada, go to Help and Support at http://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/p/?LinkId=992 • Outside of the United States, go to http://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/p/?LinkId=7611 • Direct, go to http://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/p/?LinkId=248975 MSDN Product support may be included with your MSDN subscription.
TechNet TechNet offers annual subscription packages that provide you with resources, tools, and Microsoft E-Learning courses. See http://technet.microsoft.com/subscriptions/. NOTE: Microsoft support services are subject to current prices, terms, and conditions, which are subject to change without notice. Toll charges may apply. Support options, hours, and cost in your country/region may differ from the U.S.
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