Microsoft is best known for creating the Windows computer operating system; however, they also create a version designed specifically for servers called Windows Server that offers features necessary for network administrators to effectively oversee a network environment. Windows Server stands out from home editions by not offering preloaded apps like Cortana and Edge, and by supporting an array of hardware.
What is Windows Server?
Windows Server is a server-focused operating system designed to help businesses efficiently manage network services. Available in multiple editions to meet the needs of all business sizes. Windows Server not only supports business functionality, but can also host Linux containers for organizations to take advantage of their flexibility and cost benefits offered by container technology. IT professionals should take note as this capability helps organizations take full advantage of container technology's flexibility and potential savings potential.
Windows Server functions similarly to consumer versions of Microsoft Windows, with some key exceptions. Notably, it doesn't come bundled with applications such as the Microsoft Store and Cortana; additionally it can support higher hardware capacities - up to 2TB RAM is supported!
What is Windows Server Core?
Since Windows Server 2008, Microsoft has offered the option of installing a lean version of its OS without full GUI frontend - known as Server Core installation - suitable for modern IT environments that prioritize automation and scale and can be deployed either inside a datacenter or the public cloud.
Server Core offers a smaller footprint, less complexity and reduced attack surface - which makes scaling easier. Understanding how to configure a server core for use as part of your IT infrastructure is essential. An example would be joining it to an Active Directory domain; to do this, log in as local administrator and type SConfig; this will open up the Server Configuration Window.
What is PowerShell?
PowerShell from Microsoft is a task automation and configuration management framework that combines command-line shell with scripting language for task automation, configuration management and dedicated scripting language support for both Microsoft- and non-Microsoft software products. PowerShell automates management tasks while serving as a dedicated scripting language to write custom software solutions.
PowerShell also comes equipped with an eventing system that enables PowerShell scripts to subscribe, forward, and act on various management and system events. IT administrators find this feature especially helpful for monitoring multiple servers simultaneously within a computer network. Windows PowerShell boasts powerful cmdlets, but also provides an expansive scripting environment known as the Windows PowerShell Integrated Scripting Environment (ISE). This tool features panes that enable simultaneous viewing of source code while tools may also be added into this environment to add extra functionality.
What is the life cycle of Windows Server?
Microsoft releases new versions of Windows Server approximately every two to three years, each receiving at least five years of mainstream and extended support. Therefore, system administrators must keep their software up-to-date by regularly applying patches and upgrades in order to prevent disruptions to production networks.
Microsoft also offers specialty releases of Windows Server such as Advanced Server and Datacenter Server editions that feature specific features tailored specifically for specific server environments. Windows Server licenses also impose more stringent licensing standards, with users needing to purchase Client Access Licenses (CALs) for each individual who accesses the system - which can become quite costly over time.
What is the cost of Windows Server?
Cost of Windows Server depends on how many users and devices it will serve, with Microsoft offering several editions tailored specifically for different networks. Home editions of Windows only support up to 20 device connections at one time; this may suffice for small businesses, but larger organizations might require more device connections. On the other hand, Windows Server Datacenter supports virtually unlimited device connections at any one time.
As such, Windows Server editions tend to be more costly than their home edition counterparts; however, large organizations with complex network needs may find them worthwhile. Furthermore, it's essential that businesses consider licensing costs associated with each version of Windows Server, including Client Access Licenses (CALs), which come in both User and External Connector varieties.