How to download, install and activate Windows Server 2025 Datacenter

1. Overview of Windows Server 2025 Datacenter

Windows Server 2025 is the latest server operating system from Microsoft, developed for the constantly changing requirements of modern IT infrastructures. With greater stability, faster speed, and easy integration with cloud services, it offers a powerful and scalable environment—perfect for any business.

2. Prerequisites

Setup Media

Installation media for Windows Server 2025 Datacenter can be obtained from various sources, including Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM), Retail, Visual Studio subscription, and the Volume Licensing Service Center (VLSC). The installation must be performed on a local machine and not within an Azure environment. For installing in Azure, refer to Microsoft's official documentation.

Hardware Requirements

Your system must meet or exceed the minimum hardware specifications. For detailed information, refer to the official Hardware requirements for Windows Server.

  • A minimum of an 8 GB USB flash drive.
  • A DVD drive capable of burning dual-layer DVDs.
  • A dual-layer 8.5 GB DVD (if opting for physical installation media).

Software Requirements

Choose the appropriate Windows Server edition based on your requirements. For a detailed comparison, refer to the Comparison of Windows Server editions. Ensure you have a valid product key or subscription license; activation may vary based on your distribution channel (Retail, OEM, or Commercial Licensing).

3. Windows Server 2025 Datacenter Download

  1. Join the Windows Insider Program:
    • Visit the Windows Insider Program page.
    • Sign up with your Microsoft account to gain access to preview builds.
  2. Download the ISO File:
    • Navigate to the Microsoft Evaluation Center.
    • Select "Windows Server 2025" and choose the appropriate language.
    • Click on the download link to obtain the ISO file.

Note: Ensure you download the ISO from official Microsoft sources to guarantee authenticity and security.

4. Creating Installation Media

Before installation, prepare a bootable USB drive:

For Windows Users:

  1. Use the built-in Windows tool to create a bootable USB.
  2. Insert a USB drive with at least 8GB capacity.
  3. Open Command Prompt as Administrator and use the diskpart command to format the USB drive and make it bootable.
  4. Copy the downloaded ISO files to the USB drive.

For macOS/Linux Users:

  1. Use the built-in Terminal commands to create a bootable USB.
  2. Insert a USB drive with at least 8GB capacity.
  3. Use the dd command to flash the ISO to the USB drive.

5. Install Windows Server 2025 Datacenter

Boot from USB:

  1. Insert the USB drive into the server or PC.
  2. Restart the system and access the boot menu (typically by pressing F12, F10, or Esc during startup).
  3. Select the USB drive as the boot device.

Installation Steps:

  1. Language and Region Settings: Choose your preferred language, time, and keyboard settings.
  2. Install Now: Click "Next" to begin the installation process.
  3. Product Key: Enter your product key when prompted, or choose "I don't have a product key" to enter it later. If you don't have a Windows Server 2025 Datacenter key yet, get it here now.
    4. Enter Windows Product Key
  4. Select Edition: Choose "Windows Server 2025 Datacenter (Desktop Experience)" for a GUI-based installation.
    5. Windows Server 2025 Datacenter (Desktop Experience)
  5. License Terms: Accept the license terms to continue.
    6. Windows T&C
  6. Installation Type: Choose "Custom: Install Windows only" for a fresh installation.
  7. Disk Selection: Select the disk where you want to install the OS. Format the disk if necessary.
    8. Select windows install location
  8. Begin Installation: Click "Install" to start. The system will copy files and install features, which may take some time and involve automatic restarts.
    9. Windows Server Installation

Post-Installation Configuration:

  1. Administrator Password: Set a strong password for the Administrator account.
    2. Enter Admin Password
  2. Login: Press Ctrl + Alt + Delete and enter the Administrator credentials.
  3. Initial Configuration: Configure network settings, install necessary drivers, and run Windows Update to keep the server up-to-date.

6. Activate Windows Server 2025 Datacenter

Using Command Prompt:

  1. Open Command Prompt with administrative privileges.
  2. Execute the following command, replacing XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX with your product key:
Dism /online /Set-Edition:ServerDatacenter /AcceptEula /ProductKey:XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX
  1. Press Enter. The system will process the command and activate your server.

Using the Settings Menu:

  1. Navigate to Settings > System > Activation.
  2. Click on "Change product key" and enter your valid product key.
    3. enter your valid Windows product key
  3. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the activation.

Note: Activation requires an internet connection. Ensure your system is connected to the internet during this process.

7. Post-Activation Recommendations

  1. Install Roles and Features: Use Server Manager to add necessary roles (e.g., Active Directory, DNS, DHCP).
  2. Regular Updates: Keep the server updated by installing Windows updates regularly.
  3. Security Measures: Implement best practices such as configuring firewalls, enabling antivirus software, and scheduling regular backups.

By following this guide, you can efficiently set up and activate Windows Server 2025, laying a strong foundation for your IT infrastructure.

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