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How to restore a Windows Server from nothing?

Ethan Davani 100 Reputation points
2024-04-29T17:41:15.2933333+00:00

Hello, I had this Windows Server on a physical server that was backed up to an external hard drive with a full backup done with the Windows Server Backup tool. I have tested that this backup works by restoring the system state, files that were deleted, and the entire server itself from a system image using WinRE. I am now trying to perform a system image restore using WinRE, in the same manner I did in my initial test. The difference this time is that I am now trying to do this restore starting from a fresh install of Windows Server 2022.

However, my problem this time is that when going through the WinRE system image restore, I am unable to choose an additional restore option. The prompt I am given is to create a system repair disc, as it wants me to boot from a windows installation disc/system repair disc. I do have a bootable usb drive with windows server 2022 plugged into the server, yet it still doesn’t see it. When I try to create the disc from here, it say it could not be created. How can I get around this problem?

Windows Server
Windows Server
A family of Microsoft server operating systems that support enterprise-level management, data storage, applications, and communications.
13,255 questions
Windows Server Backup
Windows Server Backup
Windows Server: A family of Microsoft server operating systems that support enterprise-level management, data storage, applications, and communications.Backup: A duplicate copy of a program, a disk, or data, made either for archiving purposes or for safeguarding valuable files from loss should the active copy be damaged or destroyed.
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Accepted answer
  1. Ian Xue 37,711 Reputation points Microsoft Vendor
    2024-04-30T03:59:35.15+00:00

    Hi Ethan,

    Hope you're doing well.

    1. Ensure that your server is configured to boot from the USB drive first. You can usually access the boot menu or BIOS settings by pressing a key (such as F2, F8, F12, or Del) during startup. Once in the BIOS settings, navigate to the boot priority/order section and set the USB drive as the first boot device.
    2. Try plugging the bootable USB drive into a different USB port on your server. Sometimes, certain USB ports may not be recognized during boot.
    3. Make sure that the bootable USB drive is properly prepared and contains the necessary files to boot into WinRE. Additionally, verify that the system image backup file on the external hard drive is intact and not corrupted.
    4. Ensure that the USB drive is compatible with your server hardware. Some older servers may have compatibility issues with certain USB drives or may require specific drivers to recognize them during boot.
    5. Check if there are any firmware or BIOS updates available for your server. Installing the latest updates may resolve compatibility issues and improve USB device recognition during boot.

    Best Regards,

    Ian Xue

    If the Answer is helpful, please click "Accept Answer" and upvote it.

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