How to Install Windows Server on VMware Workstation

Prerequisites to Install Windows Server 2022 on VMWare Workstation

Windows Server 2022, the latest iteration of Microsoft’s server operating system, offers an array of new features. Whether you are setting up a small testing environment or a large-scale data center, install Windows Server 2022 on VMware provides an ideal solution for organizations aiming to modernize their IT environments.

Before diving into the installation process, it’s crucial to ensure that your hardware and software meet the necessary requirements for running Windows Server 2022 on VMware.

✍Hardware Requirements

To successfully install Windows Server 2022, your physical host should meet the following minimum hardware requirements:

• Processor: A 1.4 GHz 64-bit processor that supports NX/DEP, CMPXCHG16b, LAHF/SAHF, and PrefetchW.
• RAM: Minimum of 512 MB, although 2 GB or more is recommended for a better experience.
• Disk Space: At least 32 GB of available disk space for the installation. Additional space may be required depending on the server roles and features you plan to install.
• Network: A network adapter capable of at least 1 Gbps, compliant with PCI Express architecture.
• Graphics: A Super VGA (1024 x 768) or higher-resolution monitor.

✍Software Requirements

Apart from the hardware, the following software components are required:

• Typically, VMware Workstation 16.0 or later and ESXi 7.0 Update 2 or later are compatible with Windows Server 2022.
• ISO Image: Download the Windows Server 2022 ISO file from the Microsoft website or through an official channel.
• VMware Tools: Necessary for enhancing performance and ensuring smooth integration between the host and guest operating systems.

How to Install Windows Server 2022 on VMware Workstation

Now that your system requirements are in order, the next step is to prepare VMware Workstation for the installation of Windows Server 2022. This involves downloading and installing VMware Workstation if it’s not already installed and configuring it to create a new virtual machine.

Step 1. Creating a New Virtual Machine in VMware Workstation 17

1. Once you have downloaded Windows Server 2022 ISO image and installed VMware Workstation. The next step is to create a new virtual machine. Click on "Create a New Virtual Machine" to start the New Virtual Machine Wizard.

2. Select “Typical” for an easier setup, or “Custom” if you require more control over the configuration.

3. Choose “Installer disc image file (ISO)” and browse to the location of the Windows Server 2022 ISO file you downloaded earlier.

4. Name your virtual machine something descriptive like "Windows Server 2022" and choose a location to store the VM files.

5. Set the disk size according to your needs (at least 40 GB is recommended). You can also choose whether to store the virtual disk as a single file or split it into multiple files.

6. Click Finish. VMware Workstation will create the virtual machine, and you’re ready to begin the Windows Server 2022 installation.

Step 2. Installing Windows Server 2022 on VMware Workstation

With your virtual machine ready, the next step is to install Windows Server 2022. This process involves booting the VM from the ISO image and following the installation wizard to set up the operating system.

1. Power on the virtual machine. The VM should automatically detect and boot from the Windows Server 2022 ISO image. If it doesn’t, ensure that the virtual CD/DVD drive is set to use the ISO file in the VM’s settings.

2. As soon as the VM booted, install the Window Server 2022 as the following:

▶ Language, Time, and Keyboard: Select your preferred language, time, and keyboard input methods, then click “Next” and “Install Now.”

▶ Choose Edition: Select the edition of Windows Server 2022 you want to install, such as Standard or Datacenter. Make sure it matches your product key if you entered one.

▶ License Agreement: Accept the Microsoft Software License Terms by checking the box and clicking “Next.”

▶ Installation Type: Choose “Custom: Install Windows only (advanced)” for a clean installation on the virtual machine.

▶ Disk Partitioning: Select the virtual disk you created earlier. Since it's a new VM, there will typically be unallocated space. Click “Next” to install Windows Server 2022 on this disk.

The installation process will begin and may take some time, depending on your system’s performance. During this time, Windows Server 2022 will copy files, install features and updates, and configure settings.

Step 3. After Windows Server Installation

Upon reboot, Windows will ask to create an administrator account. Enter a strong Password and Click the Finish.

At this point, Windows Server 2022 is successfully installed on your VMware Workstation virtual machine.

✍Tip: Creating a Windows Server 2022 VM template is also a smart strategy for your organization. With the right steps, Windows Server 2022 templates are beneficial in saving time and simplifying the deployment process.

Secure Backing Up and Restoring Windows Server 2022 on VMware Workstation

Backups are essential for preventing data loss and ensuring business continuity. VMware Workstation provides tools like snapshots to help manage backups. But snapshot cannot be used as VM backup. A professional third-party backup software such as AOMEI Cyber Backup offers more advanced options and cloud storage integration.

Why Choose AOMEI Cyber Backup for Windows Server 2022

AOMEI Cyber Backup stands out as a powerful choice for Windows Server 2022 on VMware Workstation due to its robust feature set and ease of use.

🎈Ease of Use: AOMEI Cyber Backup’s intuitive interface makes it easy for even non-technical users to manage backups.
🎈High Compatibility: It also supports various hypervisors, including VMware ESXi and Hyper-V ensuring that it can be seamlessly integrated into your existing virtualized environment.
🎈Cost-Effective: With a range of pricing options, AOMEI Cyber Backup offers a cost-effective solution that doesn’t compromise on features or performance.
🎈Flexible Scheduling: Automate backups with custom schedules to ensure that your data is always up to date.
🎈Centralized Management: Manage all your backups from a single, easy-to-use interface.
🎈Instant Recovery: Quickly restore your VMs or specific files in the event of data loss or corruption.

Automate Windows Server 2022 Backup with Simple Steps

Next, I'll describe how to back up a Windows Server 2022 virtual machine step-by-step. The process is similar to a physical machine backup, and it only takes a few simple steps to create a full system backup using AOMEI Cyber Backup.

1. Install AOMEI Cyber Backup agent into your Windows Server 2022 virtual machine.

2. Launch AOMEI Cyber Backup and navigate to the backup section. Click Create New Task tab.

• Select System Backup and enter a special name for the backup task.

• Choose the device system you want to back up.
• Specify backup to external hard drive, local drive or network share.
• Archive the system backup to cloud service Amazon S3.
• Set up an automatic backup schedule. Select the type of backup (full/incremental/differential) and backup frequency as daily/weekly/monthly.
• Specify the retention policies to delete old backups automatically.

3. Click Start Backup to initiate the process.

Conclusion

Installing Windows Server 2022 on VMware Workstation is a practical solution for IT professionals and enthusiasts who need to run and manage server environments on their personal computers. By following this step-by-step guide, you can set up a robust and efficient server environment that leverages the latest features of Windows Server 2022.

With proper configuration and regular backups provided by AOMEI Cyber Backup, your Windows Server 2022 virtual machine will serve as a reliable and high-performance tool in your workload.