Windows Server 2019 is a powerful operating system designed for enterprise-level workload management, virtualization, and networking services. This tutorial provides a step-by-step guide to installing Windows Server 2019 on a new machine.
Step 1: System Requirements
Before proceeding with installation, ensure your system meets the minimum requirements:
- Processor: 1.4 GHz 64-bit processor.
- RAM: 512 MB (2 GB for Desktop Experience).
- Storage: At least 32 GB of available disk space.
- Network: Gigabit Ethernet adapter.
- Display: Super VGA (1024 x 768) or higher resolution.
Step 2: Download Windows Server 2019
Obtain the installation media:
- Download the Windows Server 2019 ISO from the official Microsoft website.
- Create a bootable USB using tools like Rufus or Balena Etcher.
Step 3: Boot from the Installation Media
- Insert the bootable USB drive into the target server.
- Restart the machine and enter the boot menu (typically by pressing
F2, F12, ESC, or DEL
during startup). - Select the USB drive as the boot device.
Step 4: Begin the Installation
Once the setup loads you should see this screen:

Click on Install now
to see this screen:

- Select your preferred language, time, and keyboard settings.
- Click Next and then Install now.
Step 5: Choose Windows Server Edition
Windows Server 2019 is available in multiple editions:

- Windows Server 2019 Standard
- Windows Server 2019 Standard (Desktop Experience)
- Windows Server 2019 Datacenter
- Windows Server 2019 Datacenter (Desktop Experience)
Select the appropriate version based on your use case:
- The Desktop Experience editions include a graphical interface (GUI).
- The Core editions do not have a GUI and are optimized for performance and security.
Step 6: Accept the License Agreement
Check the box to accept the license terms and click Next.
Step 7: Select Installation Type
Choose Custom: Install Windows only (advanced) for a clean installation.
Step 8: Partition the Disk
- Select the drive where Windows Server will be installed.
- Optionally, create new partitions.
- Click Next to start the installation.
Step 9: Wait for Installation to Complete
The system will copy files and install features. This may take some time. The machine will reboot automatically during this process.
Step 10: Configure Administrator Account

- Once installation completes, set a strong password for the Administrator account.
- Log in using the new credentials.
Step 11: Post-Installation Configuration
After logging in, the Server Manager dashboard will appear. From here, you can:
- Configure roles and features.
- Set up networking and domain services.
- Apply Windows updates and install additional drivers.
Step 12: Activate Windows Server
To activate Windows Server:
- Open Settings > Update & Security > Activation.
- Enter your product key and click Activate.
Next Steps
Congratulations! You have successfully installed Windows Server 2019. Next, consider:
- Setting up Active Directory for user authentication.
- Configuring DNS and DHCP for network management.
- Deploying virtual machines using Hyper-V.
- Implementing security policies and backup strategies.
For advanced configurations, refer to the Microsoft documentation.