Windows Server 1.1 : Prerequisites for installing Windows Server 2019

In this lesson we prepare everything needed to install Windows Server 2019. The pragmatic path in a lab environment is to install the OS inside a virtual machine. You can use Microsoft's own hypervisor, Hyper-V, or any equivalent such as VirtualBox or VMware Workstation. The walkthrough that follows uses Hyper-V.

Creating the VM means choosing a few parameters carefully so the install runs cleanly afterwards:

  • Name — name the VM something explicit like RTS-DC1 so you can find it later in the Hyper-V Manager.
  • Generation — pick Generation 2, which is what Windows Server 2019 supports natively.
  • Memory — at least 2048 MB (= 2 GB). It is recommended to give it 4096 MB (= 4 GB) of RAM if you have enough RAM on the host. Note that the field expects megabytes, hence the values 2048 and 4096.
  • Virtual switch — create a new external virtual switch (we name it VSwitch). An external switch lets the VM reach the same network as the host, including the Internet, which is needed to activate the operating system.
  • Virtual hard disk — keep the defaults.
  • ISO — attach the Windows Server 2019 ISO downloaded from Microsoft. If you have not downloaded it yet, the ISO is available on the Microsoft Evaluation Center.

Once these five settings are in place, the VM is ready to boot from the ISO and the OS installation can begin. The point of this lesson is simply that the prerequisites are met before you click Install: a properly named VM, the right generation, enough memory, network connectivity through an external switch, and the install media attached.

Summary

This lesson covers the essential prerequisites for installing Windows Server 2019, focusing on virtual machine setup using Hyper-V. Learn how to configure critical VM parameters including VM naming conventions, generation selection, memory allocation, and virtual network switches. The lesson guides you through the foundational setup before deploying Windows Server 2019 on a virtual hard drive.

Key points

  • Use Hyper-V, VirtualBox, or VMware as hypervisors to create virtual machines for Windows Server 2019
  • Configure VM name (example: RTS-DC1) and select Generation 2 for optimal compatibility
  • Allocate minimum 2 GB (2048 MB) of RAM; 4 GB (4096 MB) is recommended if available
  • Create an external virtual switch to enable VM connectivity to your network and internet access
  • Enable system activation by properly connecting the virtual switch for Windows Server license validation
  • Download the Windows Server 2019 ISO file from Microsoft's official website before installation

FAQ

What is the minimum memory requirement for a Windows Server 2019 virtual machine?

The minimum memory allocation is 2 GB (2048 MB). However, it is recommended to allocate 4 GB (4096 MB) if available on your host computer for optimal performance.

Why do I need an external virtual switch for Windows Server 2019 installation?

An external virtual switch enables your virtual machine to connect to your physical network and the internet, allowing the system to access resources and validate the Windows Server license during activation.

Should I use Hyper-V, VirtualBox, or VMware for creating the virtual machine?

You can use any of these hypervisors—Hyper-V, VirtualBox, or VMware. The lesson demonstrates using Hyper-V, but all three are viable options for setting up Windows Server 2019.