Windows Server get started documentation

Windows Server builds connected app, network, and web service infrastructure from workgroup to data center, bridging on-premises with Azure.

Overview

Overview

• What is Windows Server?
• What's new in Windows Server 2025
• Windows Server Insiders Preview

Concept

• Editions feature comparison
• Hardware requirements
• Features removed or no longer developed in Windows Server

Plan

Concept

• Install, upgrade, or migrate
• Server Core vs Server with Desktop Experience
• Servicing channels comparison

Concept

• Microsoft server applications compatibility
• Azure Hybrid Benefit for Windows Server

Install & upgrade

Deploy

• Install Windows Server from installation media
• Plan your Windows Server upgrade
• Perform an in-place upgrade

How-To Guide

• Convert editions and license types
• Install Server Core App Compatibility

Activation

Concept

• Automatic VM Activation
• KMS activation planning

How-To Guide

• Create KMS host
• KMS client activation
• Troubleshooting Windows volume activation

Azure Arc enabled servers

Concept

• Azure Connected Machine agent deployment options

How-To Guide

• Connect Windows Server to Azure Arc
• Get Extended Security Updates
• Deliver Extended Security Updates with Azure Arc
• Enable Hotpatch for Azure Arc-enabled servers