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Step-By-Step Procedure To Install Windows Server 2019 On VMWare Workstation

We will show you how to Install Windows Server 2019 on VMWare Workstation. You can use this method to run Windows Server 2019 on your personal computer and practice new features and configurations before implementing them in a production environment. Windows Server 2019 comes with a lot of improvements and new features. And like always, Microsoft has made available different editions of Windows Server 2019 for different users and scenarios. In this article, we will focus on the Datacenter edition which is the most feature-rich edition of Windows Server 2019.

If you want to Install Windows Server 2019 on VMWare Workstation then follow this guide. We will show you step by step process to Install Windows Server 2019 on VMWare Workstation. This guide is also applicable for installing other versions of Windows Servers and Desktops on VMWare Workstation.

Basic Requirments To Install Windows Server 2019 On VMWare Workstation?

Before we start with the installation process, let’s have a look at the system requirements to install Windows Server 2019 on VMWare Workstation.

#1. Host Computer to run VMWare Workstation:

The Minimum computational resources needed to run Windows Server 2019 on VMWare Workstation:

  • Processor: Intel Core 2 Duo processor or later. AMD Athlon™ 64 X2 Dual Core Processor 3000+ or higher is recommended.
  • Memory: 4GB of RAM or more is recommended. The minimum supported is 2GB of RAM. Note that memory requirements increase as guest operating systems are added.
  • Storage: 60GB of available storage is recommended. Additional storage may be necessary when installing guest operating systems.
  • Network: A network connection is required for installation and updates.

2. Download Windows Server 2019 ISO File:

The first thing you need is the ISO file of Windows Server 2019. You can download it from the official website of Microsoft. Just go to this link and select the edition you want to download. In our case, we will be downloaded the Datacenter edition because it is the most feature-rich edition.

3. Install VMWare Workstation 15 Pro:

After downloading the ISO file, the next thing you need is virtualization software. In this article, we will be using VMWare Workstation. You can also use other virtualization software like VirtualBox, Hyper-V, etc.

Just go to the official website of VMWare and download the latest version of VMWare Workstation Pro. Install it on your computer and launch it.

Now that we know the system requirements, let’s start with the installation process.

How To Install Windows Server 2019 On VMWare Workstation?

Time needed: 30 minutes

How to Install Windows Server 2019 on VMWare Workstation?

  1. Open the new Virtual Machine Wizard

    1. Fire up VMWare Workstation
    2. Go to File -> New Virtual Machine or Ctrl + N

    WORKSTATION 16 PRO

  2. Select Custom Configuration Wizard

    Select Custom Wizard and click Next

    What Type of Configuration Do you Want

  3. Choose VM Hardware Compatibility

    1. Choose the compatible hardware from the drop-down
    2. Click Next

    Which Hardware Feature are Needed For This virtual Machine

  4. Select to install operating system later option

    1. Select to install operating system later option
    2. Click Next

    Guest Operating Sustem Installation

  5. Select the guest operating system

    1. Select Windows 10 since we don’t have the windows server option included yet.
    2. Click Next

    Guest Operating System

  6. Virtual Machine Name & Location

    1. Give the Virtual Machine Name & Location
    2. Click Next

    Virtual Machine Name

  7. Select Firmware Type

    1. You can select either BIOS or UEFI. Note: Only new boards supports UEFI.
    2. Click Next

    firmware Type

  8. Allocate the number of processors you need

    1. Allocate how many processors you need. This depends on your host machine’s hardware.
    2. Click Next

    Processor Configuration

  9. Set the Memory for the virtual machine

    1. This depends on your host machine’s hardware. You should leave the memory to run the host machine without hazels.
    2. Click Next

    Memorry for The Virtual Machine

  10. Select Network Connection settings for the VM

    1. Four options are available to select. Please read and select your desired network setting.
    2. Click Next

    Network Type

  11. Choose the appropriate storage IO controller

    1. Choose the appropriate storage IO controller
    2. Click Next

    Select Controller Types

  12. Select the disk type for the VM

    1. Select the available disk type on your host machine.
    2. Click Next

    Select a Disk Type

  13. Select the virtual disk for the VM

    1. Select the virtual disk for the VM if not create a new disk
    2. Click Next

    Select a Disk

  14. Assign the disk size for the VM

    You can select a single or split virtual disk option. Selecting a single disk will increase the performance. But, if you want to move the disk to a different location you can select the split virtual disk.

    Allocate the disk size and click next.

    Specify Disk Capacity

  15. Give the path where you want to keep the VM disk

    1. Give the location where you want to save the disk.
    2. Click Next.

    Specify Disk File

  16. Create the VM

    1. VM settings are ready to create the VM.
    2. Click Finish

    Read To Create Virual Machine

  17. Load the ISO image to boot the VM

    1. Select use ISO image file
    2. Browse the ISO image
    3. Click Ok

    Virtual Machine Settings

  18. All set to power on the VM

    Windows Server 2019

  19. First boot screen of Windows Server 2019

    Starting Up

  20. Windows Server 2019 installation wizard

    The installation wizard will appear in a couple of seconds after the boot
    1. Select the language time and keyboard settings
    2. Click Next

    Windows Setup

  21. Install Windows Server 2019

    Click on Install Now

    Windows Server 2019 One

  22. Select The Operating System You Want To Install

    1. Select the version you want to install
    2. Click Next

    Windows SetUp One

  23. Accept the License Agreement

    Windows SetUp Two

  24. Select installation method

    Select custom installation if you are doing a fresh installation. Or, select upgrade if you are upgrading your older Windows Server to Windows Server 2019.

    Which Type Of Installation Do You Want?

  25. Select the installation disk for installation

    Select the disk and click on Next to install Windows Server 2019. If you want to create additional logical partitions then select the disk and click on new assign the partition size. You can create multiple partitions within available storage.

    Windows SetUp Three

  26. Installing Windows Server 2019

    Windows SetUp Five

  27. Installation is in progress…

    Windows SetUp Six

  28. Windows getting ready after the installation completes

    Windows SetUp Seven

  29. Create Administrator User

    Customise Settings

  30. Windows Server is ready to use

    Starting Screen

  31. Windows Server 2019 Login screen

    Administrator

  32. First look at Windows Server 2019

    Wellcome Screen

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This is how you should Install Windows Server 2019 on VMWare Workstation.

Thanks for reading the post. Please share this post with those who want to know the procedure to Install Windows Server 2019 on VMWare.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. What is VMware Workstation?

VMware Workstation is a virtualization software that allows users to run multiple operating systems on a single host computer. It is popular among IT professionals, developers, and businesses for testing, development, and server management tasks.

2. What is Windows Server 2019?

Windows Server 2019 is a server operating system developed by Microsoft. It is part of the Windows NT family and offers enhanced security, scalability, and performance features. It is used by businesses and organizations for managing networks, databases, web services, and other server-based applications.

3. Can I install Windows Server 2019 on VMware Workstation?

Yes, you can install Windows Server 2019 on VMware Workstation. This setup allows you to create a virtual environment for testing, development, and server management without the need for dedicated hardware.

4. What are the system requirements for installing Windows Server 2019 on VMware Workstation?

The minimum system requirements for installing Windows Server 2019 on VMware Workstation are:

1. A compatible host operating system (Windows, Linux, or macOS)
2. A 64-bit x86 processor
3. At least 4 GB of RAM (8 GB or more recommended)
4. A minimum of 40 GB free disk space
5. A compatible version of VMware Workstation (version 15 or higher recommended)

5. How do I create a new virtual machine in VMware Workstation for Windows Server 2019?

To create a new virtual machine for Windows Server 2019, follow these steps:


1. Open VMware Workstation.
2. Click “Create a New Virtual Machine” or go to “File” > “New Virtual Machine.”
3. Select the installation method (e.g., “Typical” or “Custom”) and click “Next.”
4. Choose the installation media (e.g., ISO file or physical DVD) and click “Next.”
5. Select “Microsoft Windows” as the guest operating system and choose “Windows Server 2019” from the version dropdown menu. Click “Next.”
6. Configure the virtual machine settings, such as the name, location, disk size, and network settings, as required.
7. Click “Finish” to create the virtual machine.

6. How do I install Windows Server 2019 on the virtual machine?

Once you have created a new virtual machine, follow these steps to install Windows Server 2019:


1. Power on the virtual machine by clicking “Power on this virtual machine” or pressing the power button in VMware Workstation.
2. The Windows Server 2019 installation process will begin. Follow the on-screen instructions to choose your language, time format, and keyboard layout.
3. Click “Install Now.”
4. Enter your product key, or choose to evaluate Windows Server 2019 if you don’t have a key.
5. Select the Windows Server 2019 edition you want to install and click “Next.”
6. Accept the license terms and click “Next.”
7. Choose the installation type (e.g., “Custom” for a clean installation) and click “Next.”
8. Select the disk where you want to install Windows Server 2019 and click “Next.”
9. The installation process will begin. It may take some time to complete.
10. Once the installation is finished, the system will reboot. Follow the on-screen instructions to set up your administrator account and complete the installation.

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7. Can I create multiple Windows Server 2019 virtual machines on VMware Workstation?

Yes, you can create and manage multiple Windows Server 2019 virtual machines on VMware Workstation, provided your host system has adequate resources (e.g., RAM, CPU, and disk space) to support the additional
virtual machines. This setup is useful for creating complex test environments, simulating multiple servers, or isolating specific applications or services.

8. Can I run other operating systems on VMware Workstation alongside Windows Server 2019?

Yes, you can run multiple operating systems, including other Windows versions, Linux distributions, and macOS, on VMware Workstation alongside Windows Server 2019. This feature enables you to create a versatile and flexible virtual environment for testing, development, and server management tasks.

9. What are the networking options available for Windows Server 2019 virtual machines on VMware Workstation?

VMware Workstation provides several networking options for your Windows Server 2019 virtual machines, including:


1. Bridged networking: The virtual machine shares the same network as the host computer, obtaining its IP address from the host’s DHCP server.
2. NAT (Network Address Translation): The virtual machine shares the host’s IP address and accesses external networks through the host’s network connection.
3. Host-only networking: The virtual machine can communicate only with the host computer and other virtual machines configured for host-only networking.
4. Custom networking: Allows you to create a custom virtual network configuration, including defining your own virtual switches and network settings.

10. How can I transfer files between the host computer and the Windows Server 2019 virtual machine?

There are several methods to transfer files between the host computer and the Windows Server 2019 virtual machine, including:


1. Shared folders: You can create shared folders on the host system that can be accessed by the virtual machine. To enable this feature, go to the virtual machine settings, select “Options” > “Shared Folders,” and configure the folders you want to share.
2. Drag-and-drop: VMware Workstation supports drag-and-drop functionality, allowing you to transfer files between the host system and the virtual machine by simply dragging and dropping files or folders.
3. Network file sharing: If the virtual machine is configured for bridged or NAT networking, you can transfer files using standard network file sharing protocols, such as SMB/CIFS or FTP.

11. Can I take snapshots of my Windows Server 2019 virtual machine in VMware Workstation?

Yes, you can take snapshots of your Windows Server 2019 virtual machine in VMware Workstation. Snapshots allow you to capture the state of your virtual machine, including its memory, settings, and virtual disk, at a specific point in time. You can later revert to a previous snapshot if needed, making it a useful feature for testing and troubleshooting purposes.


To take a snapshot, select your virtual machine in VMware Workstation, then click “VM” > “Snapshot” > “Take Snapshot” or use the snapshot button in the toolbar. You can manage your snapshots through the “Snapshot Manager,” accessible by clicking “VM” > “Snapshot” > “Snapshot Manager.”

12. Can I perform live migrations of Windows Server 2019 virtual machines between different VMware Workstation installations or to other VMware products?

VMware Workstation does not natively support live migration of virtual machines between different installations or to other VMware products, such as VMware ESXi or vSphere. However, you can perform cold migrations by powering off the virtual machine, exporting it as an OVF (Open Virtualization Format) file or copying the virtual machine folder, and then importing it into another VMware Workstation installation or VMware product.


For more advanced migration features, including live migration, consider using VMware vSphere or other enterprise-level virtualization solutions.

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About the author

Arun KL

Hi All, I am Arun KL, an IT Security Professional. Founder of “thesecmaster.com”. Enthusiast, Security Blogger, Technical Writer, Editor, Author at TheSecMaster. To know more about me. Follow me on LinkedIn

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    1. Hello There,

      In our openion, the ISO image should be loaded at the beginning of Step 4 or at Step 17 as shone here. There is a difference in the loading of ISO images. If you load the image at the beginning, the installation will go on partial auto pilot mode (A few steps will be self-configured). If you choose to load the ISO image later as hone in the post. You will be in complete interactive mode. You will have to go through every step throughout the installation process. This is good for custom installation.

      Thanks for your comment. Please replay if you have anything else.

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