How to Set Up Windows Server 2016

After preparing a bootable USB drive, follow these instructions for a fresh installation:

1. Switch on your server so that Windows starts as usual; insert the Windows Server USB, then reboot the server.
2. Your device will boot from the Windows Server USB drive. Press any key when the message Press any key to boot from CD or DVD appears.

Note: If the Windows Server installation doesn't start after rebooting, you may need to change the boot order in your PC's BIOS settings to boot from USB.
3. Restart your PC, and when the manufacturer's logo appears, look for the boot menu key, which is typically F2, F10, F11, F12, or Del, to open the menu.

4. Change the boot order to USB.
5. Once in the setup program, select your preferred language, time format, currency, and keyboard input method, then click Next.

6. Next, click Install now to start the installation process.

7. Enter the product key and click Next.

8. In the next box, select the edition (Desktop Experience) and click Next.

9. Accept the terms and conditions and click Next.

10. In the next step, click Custom: Install Windows only (advanced).

11. In the next box, select the disk drive where you want to install Windows Server and click Next.
Note: We suggest deleting all partitions on the hard drive for optimal Windows Server performance. If the hard drive is new, just click next.

12. The Windows Server installation will commence. This will take a few minutes.

13. Next, set a memorable password and click Finish.

14. Then press the Ctrl+Alt+Del keys and enter the password you initially set. Your Windows Server desktop will appear.