In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to install Windows Server on Hetzner VPS, ensuring a smooth setup process even for beginners. With my step-by-step instructions, you’ll be up and running in no time, taking full advantage of your new server.
Table of Contents
- Introduction to Installing Windows Server on Hetzner Cloud
- Selecting Server Location and Operating System
- Installing Windows on the Server
- Completing Windows Installation and Configuration
- Connecting to the Server via Remote Desktop Connection
- FAQ
Introduction to Installing Windows Server on Hetzner Cloud
Are you ready to take your server management to the next level? Installing Windows Server on a Hetzner VPS is a fantastic way to harness the power of Windows in the cloud. With Hetzner’s robust infrastructure, you can easily create a reliable server environment tailored to your needs. In this section, I’ll guide you through the essential steps to get your Windows Server up and running smoothly.
Setting Up Hetzner Cloud Account
Before we dive into the installation process, we need to set up your Hetzner Cloud account. Here’s how you can get started:
- Visit the Hetzner Cloud website.
- Click on Sign Up to create a new account.
- Fill in your email address and create a secure password. Make sure to save these details!
- Check your email for a verification link and click on it to verify your account.
- Complete your profile by providing necessary personal and payment details for billing purposes.
Server Setup and Remote Desktop Connection
Once your account is ready, it’s time to set up your server. This involves selecting the right specifications and configuring access:
- Log into your Hetzner Cloud account and navigate to the Projects section.
- Create a new project for your Windows Server setup.
- Click on Add Server to start the server creation process.
- Select a server location that suits your needs. Keep in mind that prices may vary by location.
- For the operating system, we’ll initially select Ubuntu, as we need to mount the Windows ISO later.
- Choose your server’s specifications, like the number of CPUs and RAM. For basic usage, 2 CPU and 2 GB RAM are sufficient.
- Click on Create and Buy to provision your server.
Registering and Verifying Your Account
Account verification is crucial for security and billing. Here’s what you should do:
- After creating your account, you may need to complete an additional verification step.
- If prompted, upload the necessary identification documents to confirm your identity.
- Once verified, you’ll receive a confirmation, allowing you to create and manage projects.
Enabling Two-Factor Authentication
For added security, enabling two-factor authentication (2FA) is highly recommended:
- In your account settings, find the option to enable 2FA.
- Follow the prompts to link your authentication app or method.
- Save your backup codes in a secure location.
Creating a New Project on Hetzner Cloud
Now that your account is set up, let’s create a new project specifically for your Windows Server:
- Navigate to the Projects section of your Hetzner Cloud dashboard.
- Click on Create New Project.
- Name your project something memorable, like “Windows Server”.
- Select your newly created project to start configuring your server.
With these steps completed, you’re now well on your way to installing Windows Server on your Hetzner VPS. The next sections will cover the actual installation process and configuration to ensure your server is ready for use!
Selecting Server Location and Operating System
Choosing the right server location is crucial for performance and latency. When installing Windows Server on Hetzner VPS, you want to ensure that your server is close to your target audience or user base. This minimizes latency and improves response times. To select the server location:
- In your Hetzner Cloud dashboard, navigate to the Add Server section.
- You’ll see a list of available locations. Consider factors like data protection regulations and server proximity to users.
- Select the location that best fits your needs. For example, if you’re targeting users in Europe, choose a European data center.
Next, you’ll need to select the operating system. While we will ultimately be installing Windows Server, you’ll initially choose a temporary operating system like Ubuntu to facilitate the installation process. Follow these steps:
- In the Operating System dropdown, select Ubuntu.
- Once the server is provisioned, we will mount the Windows ISO and proceed with the installation.
Installing Windows on the Server
Now that your server is set up, it’s time to install Windows Server. This process involves mounting the Windows ISO file and running the installation.
To begin the installation:
- Go to the ISO Images section in your Hetzner dashboard.
- Search for the Windows Server version you want to install. For example, you might select Windows Server 2022 English.
- Click the Mount button to attach the ISO to your server.
After mounting the ISO, access your server console:
- Click on Console in your server management interface.
- Switch to graphical mode and use Ctrl + Alt + Delete to begin the Windows installation process.
Follow the prompts to install Windows Server:
- Select your preferred language and click Install Now.
- Choose the version of Windows Server you want to install. I recommend selecting the Standard version with Desktop Experience for better usability.
- When prompted, select Custom installation, as we will be setting up a new partition.
During the installation, the system may not find any drives due to the absence of necessary drivers. Don’t worry! Here’s how to resolve this:
- Return to the ISO Images section and mount the driver ISO.
- Browse to the mounted driver ISO and select the appropriate drivers for the Windows version you are installing.
Completing Windows Installation and Configuration
Once the drivers are loaded, proceed with creating your disk partitions:
- Delete any existing partitions created by Ubuntu to ensure a clean setup.
- Create a new partition using the unallocated space for Windows Server. It’s often best to use the entire disk for simplicity.
- Click Next to start the installation.
After the installation completes, you will need to configure your server:
- Set a password for the built-in Administrator account.
- Once logged in, you will see the Server Manager welcome screen. Here, you can adjust various settings.
Connecting to the Server via Remote Desktop Connection
Now that Windows Server is installed and configured, it’s time to connect to your server using Remote Desktop.
To connect:
- Open the Remote Desktop Connection application on your computer.
- Enter the server’s public IP address, which you can find in the Hetzner Cloud dashboard.
- Use Administrator as the username and enter the password you created during setup.
Once connected, you can manage your server just like any local machine. Feel free to explore and install any additional software you may need!
FAQ
1. Can I install different versions of Windows Server?
Yes, Hetzner supports multiple versions of Windows Server, including 2016, 2019, 2022, and beyond. Choose the one that best fits your requirements.
2. What are the system requirements for Windows Server?
While it varies by version, generally, a minimum of 2 CPUs, 2 GB RAM, and 40 GB of disk space is recommended for basic installations.
3. How do I access my server after installation?
You can access your server using Remote Desktop Connection by entering the server’s public IP address and your Administrator credentials.
4. What if I encounter issues during installation?
If you face any issues, check the driver installation process. Ensure you have mounted the correct ISO images and followed all steps. Feel free to leave a comment for additional help!
By following these steps, you should now have a fully operational Windows Server on your Hetzner VPS. Enjoy the power and flexibility it brings to your projects!