How to Install Windows Server 2012 R2 Step by Step

Once you have created a bootable USB drive, follow these steps for a clean installation:

1. Power on your server to start Windows normally; insert the Windows Server USB and then restart your server.
2. Your device will boot from the Windows Server USB device. Press any key when the message Press any key to boot from CD or DVD appears.

Note: If your PC restarts without beginning the Windows Server installation, you will need to adjust the boot order in your BIOS settings to prioritize the USB drive.
3. Restart your PC and look for the BOOT menu key, which is typically F2, F10, F11, F12 or Del, as the manufacturer's logo appears to access the menu.

4. Set the boot order to USB.
5. In the setup programme, select your language, time format, currency and keyboard or input method, and then click Next.

6. Click Install now to begin the installation process.

7. Choose the Windows Server edition you want to install. We recommend the GUI version. Click Next.

8. Accept the licence terms and click Next.

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

10. Select the drive where you want to install Windows Server and click Next.
Note: We recommend deleting all partitions on the hard drive for proper Windows Server functionality. If your hard drive is new, just click Next.

11. The installation process for Windows Server will begin and take a few minutes.

12. Click Accept to set a password.

13. Set a password that's easy to remember.

14. In the next step, a locked screen will appear. Press Ctrl+Alt+Del to sign in.

15. Congratulations, you have successfully installed Windows Server.