Get started with Windows Server

Windows Server is the platform for building an infrastructure of connected applications, networks, and web services, from the workgroup to the data center. It bridges on-premises environments with Azure, adding additional layers of security while helping you modernize your applications and infrastructure.

This collection of articles contains detailed information to help you understand and get the most from Windows Server, and help determine if you're ready to move to the latest version. Once you've checked the system requirements, upgrade options, and other information about Windows Server, you're ready to start down the path of installing the best edition and installation option for your needs.

Support and feedback

For the latest news on Windows Server, visit the Windows Server blog to stay up to date on announcements, features, events, and other information from the Windows Server engineering teams. You can also visit the Windows Server Community to share best practices, get latest news, and learn from experts about Windows Server.

Learn

Browse learning paths for Windows Server to help learn new skills and accelerate your deployment with step-by-step guidance. You can learn how to deploy, configure and administer Windows Server, as well as network infrastructure, file servers and storage management, Hyper-V and virtualization, plus much more.

Windows Insider Program

The Windows Insider Program for Windows Server provides preview builds of Windows Server allowing you early access to learn, test, and help shape the future of Windows Server. To learn more, you can get started with the Windows Insider Program for Windows Server and participate in the Windows Server Insiders Community.

Next steps

To get started, find out more from these resources.

• What's new in Windows Server 2025 provides an overview of the latest features in Windows Server.
• Learn about the different servicing channels, which each is used for, and what it means for your workloads and support.
• Compare the differences in the editions in Windows Server 2022.
• Choose the right installation option based on whether you want the Desktop Experience or a minimal Core interface.
• Understand the hardware requirements to run Windows Server.
• Follow the learning path for Windows Server deployment, configuration, and administration.
• If you still need to use Windows Server 2012, or Windows Server 2012 R2 Extended Security Updates are available to help keep you safe with security updates and bulletins rated critical and important.