Using Windows Server Essentials 2012

Using Windows Server 2012 Essentials - Step by Step is our comprehensive guide to Microsoft's ideal "first server" platform. Written specifically for home and small business owners new to servers, or those migrating from Microsoft's Windows Home Server, Using Windows Server 2012 Essentials provides easy to follow steps for installing, configuring and extending Windows Server 2012 Essentials - at home or at the office! Fully illustrated with hundreds of colour screenshots, this 586 page eBook is designed to provide a friendly deep dive into the features and workings of Microsoft's server platform - no IT degree required! Author and Microsoft Most Valuable Professional Jim Clark walks you through first steps with your server - from the computer hardware you'll need to host Windows Server 2012 Essentials, through installing the software, configuring user accounts and security settings, connecting client PCs, mobile devices and Apple Macs. We take a look at backing up and restoring your vital data, sharing files and folders across multiple users and devices, accessing the server remotely via the web or VPN, streaming music, video and photos and a whole lot more. The eBook wraps up with a high level guide to additional software you could consider installing to extend the Windows Server 2012 platform as well as an introduction to advanced server management tools and features. Whether you're considering the use of a server at home or for your small business, thinking of moving from a Network Attached Storage device or back-up hard drive to a more powerful option, or simply whether you just want to find out more, Using Windows Server 2012 Essentials - Step by Step has been written to answer all of your questions - by non-IT geeks, for non-IT geeks!

Windows Server 2012 R2 Essentials is the latest version of Microsoft's server operating system designed for organizations with up to 25 employees. However, as with most modern applications it comes with only the most basic of instructions. Windows Server 2012 R2 Essentials Installation Guide for Small Businesses is a succinct installation guide produced from a real world perspective and written according to the Goldilocks Principle - not too little information, not too much information, but just right. With over 170 illustrations and screenshots, practical examples and clear explanations it takes you through setting up Essentials in a typical small business. Whether you are installing Essentials for the first time, are planning to do so or are just plain curious, you will find this proven guide of interest. This edition is also applicable to Windows Storage Server systems.CONTENTS1. Hardware and Infrastructure1.1 File Server1.2 Disk Drives and Storage Options1.2.1 Single Drive System1.2.2 Twin Disk Drives1.2.3 RAID1.2.4 Storage Spaces1.2.5 SSD and 2 ½ inch Drives1.2.6 Storage Server systems1.3 Internet Connection, Hub, Router1.4 IP Considerations2. Basic Installation of Windows Server 2012 R2 Essentials3. Managing Essentials - The 5 Minute Tour4. Users and Folders4.1 Setting up Storage Spaces4.2 Creating User Accounts4.3 Folder Redirection4.4 Creating Additional Folders4.5 User Groups5. Connecting Computers to the Server5.1 Using the Windows Server Essentials Connector5.2 Disabling the Launchpad5.3 Additional Considerations When Connecting Windows 8 Clients5.4 Adding a Computer to the Domain without using the Connector5.5 Connecting Computers with Unsupported Operating Systems6. Backups and Restores6.1 Configuring Backups for the Server6.2 Recovering Files to the Server6.3 Backing up to a Network Drive6.4 Configuring Backups for the Computers6.4.1 Changing the Backup Parameters6.5 Restoring Data to a Computer7. Printing7.1 Networked Printer7.2 Shared Printer on Server8. Remote Access8.1 Setting up Anywhere Access8.2 Controlling Anywhere Access for Individual Users8.3 Using Remote Web Access8.4 Using the VPN (Virtual Private Network)8.4.1 Windows 8 Clients8.4.2 Windows 7 Clients8.5. Using Dropbox with Essentials8.6. Using Google Drive with Essentials9. Housekeeping and Monitoring the Health of the System9.1 Checking the Dashboard9.2 Generating a Report9.3 Customizing the Health Report9.4 Setting up a Scheduled, Emailed Report9.5 Optimizing the Hard Drives9.6 Applying Windows Updates to the Server9.7 Task Manager and Resource Monitor10. Working with iPads and Other Devices10.1 Accessing the File System with File Browser10.2 Using Dropbox and Google Drive10.3 My Server App for Windows Phone10.4 Microsoft Remote Desktop app for iOS10.5 Chromebooks11. Group Policy11.1 Group Policy Management Console11.2 Defining the Internet Home Page for All Users11.3 Windows 7 & Windows 8 Logon Behaviour12. Miscellaneous Topics12.1 Disabling Internet Explorer Enhanced Security12.2 Security Software for the Server12.3 Customizing the Server Desktop Screen12.4 Headless Operation12.5 Drive Mappings via Login Script12.6 Restore Missing Shortcut to Shared Folders12.7 Managing Computers from the Server12.8 Add-ins13. Office 36513.1 Preparation13.2 Installation13.3 Creating a New User13.4 Assigning an Existing Local Account13.5 Removing and Blocking an Online Account13.6 Checking Who Has an Online Account13.7 Changes to Storage Page in Dashboard13.8 Changes to Devices Page in DashboardAppendix A: Installing DHCPAppendix B: Installing Windows Server Essentials Experience on Server 2012Appendix C: Multiple Network Adapters (NIC Teaming)

NOTE: This title is also available as a free eBook on the Microsoft Download Center. It is offered for sale in print format as a convenience. Get a head start evaluating Windows Server 2012 R2 - with technical insights from a Microsoft MVP and members of the Windows Server product team. Based on final Windows Server 2012 R2 release-to-manufacturing (RTM) software, this guide introduces new features and capabilities, with scenario-based advice on how the platform can meet the needs of your business. Get the high-level overview you need to begin preparing your deployment now. Coverage includes: Server virtualization and cloud solutions Availability and scalability Provisioning and storage management Security features, access, and data protection Infrastructure options Server management and automation

Portable and precise, this pocket-sized guide delivers ready answers for core configuration and administrative tasks in Windows Server 2012 R2. Zero in on the essentials through quick-reference tables, instructions, and lists. You'll get the focused information you need to save time and get the job done - whether at your desk or in the field. Coverage includes: Administration overview Managing servers running Windows Server 2012 R2 Monitoring services, processes, and events Automating administrative tasks, policies, and procedures Enhancing computer security Using Active Directory Core Active Directory administration Creating user and group accounts Managing existing user and group accounts

The aim of this guide is to take the reader through a typical installation of a small Windows Server 2012 R2 network and is written for the following audience:* Someone who is new to Windows Server 2012 R2 and installing it for the first time* Someone setting up Windows Server 2012 R2 in a small business setting* Someone wishing to learn the basics of Windows Server 2012 R2 and who wants a succinct, practical guide based on real world scenarios and experience rather than abstract theoryThe approach is very much practical and hands on and based on real world experience. It should give you a good feel for Windows Server and help you setup a network that meets the needs of a typical small organization. It assumes a reasonable working knowledge of Windows, along with the basics of networking. With over 110 illustrations and screenshots and written in a friendly, no nonsense style, it is the ideal introduction to Windows Server.CONTENTS1. Hardware and Infrastructure1.1 File Server1.2 Disk Drives and Storage Options1.2.1 Single Drive System1.2.2 Twin Disk Drives1.2.3 RAID1.2.4 Storage Spaces1.2.5 SSD and 2 ½ inch Drives1.3 Internet Connection, Hub, Router1.4 IP Considerations2. Initial Installation of Windows Server 2012 R23. Storage and Shared Folders3.1 Setting up Storage Spaces3.2 Folder Structure and Shares4. Creating Users4.1 Resetting a Password4.2 Disabling an Account4.3 Deleting an Account4.4 User Groups4.5 Home Folders, Login Scripts and Profiles5. Connecting Computers to the Domain5.1 DNS Settings with All-in-One Routers5.2 Connecting a Windows XP Client to the domain5.3 Connecting a Windows Vista Client to the domain5.4 Connecting a Windows 7 Client to the domain5.5 Connecting a Windows 8.1 Client to the domain5.6 Connecting a Windows 10 Client to the domain (classic method)5.7 Connecting a Windows 10 Client to the domain (modern method)5.8 Connecting Computers with Unsupported Operating Systems6. Backups6.1 Installation of Windows Server Backup6.2 Setting up a Scheduled Backup6.3 Recovering Files6.4 Backing up to a Network Drive7. Printing7.1 Independent Networked Printer7.2 Shared Printer on Server8. Cloud Services8.1 Using Dropbox with Windows Server8.2 Using Google Drive with Windows Server9. Group Policy9.1 Installation of Group Policy Management9.2 Group Policy Management Console9.3 Specifying Home Page Using Group Policy9.4 Windows 7 & 8 Logon Behaviour9.5 Logon Warning/Security Message9.6 Changing the Password Policy9.7 Redirect the User's Documents Folder10. Housekeeping and Monitoring the Health of the Server10.1 Disabling Internet Explorer Enhanced Security10.2 Checking the Event Logs10.3 Optimizing the Hard Drives10.4 Applying Windows Updates to the Server10.5 Shutting down the Server10.6 Install Server Management Software10.7 Install Anti-Virus/Anti-Malware Software10.8 Setup Alternative Administrator Account(s)10.9 Remote Desktop10.10 Task Manager and Resource Monitor11. Working with iPads and Other Portable Devices11.1 Accessing the File System with File Browser11.2 Using Dropbox and Google Drive11.3 My Server App for Windows Phone11.4 Microsoft Remote Desktop app for iOS11.5 ChromebooksAppendix A: Installing DHCPAppendix B: Installing Windows Server Essentials ExperienceAppendix C: Multiple Network Adapters (NIC Teaming)

The "Missing Guide" to Windows Server Essentials.Windows Server 2016 Essentials is the latest version of Microsoft's server operating system designed for organizations with up to 25 employees. However, as with most modern applications it comes with only the most basic of instructions. Windows Server 2016 Essentials Installation Guide for Small Businesses is a succinct installation guide produced from a real world perspective and written according to the Goldilocks Principle - not too little information, not too much information, but just right. With over 190 illustrations and screenshots, practical examples and clear explanations it takes you through setting up Essentials in a typical small business. Whether you are installing Essentials for the first time, are planning to do so or are just plain curious, you will find this proven guide of interest and help. 1. HARDWARE AND INFRASTRUCTURE1.1 File Server1.2 Disk Drives and Storage Options1.2.1 Single Drive System1.2.2 Twin Disk Drives1.2.3 RAID1.2.4 Storage Spaces1.2.5 SSD and 2 � inch Drives1.3 Internet Connection, Hub, Router1.4 IP Considerations2. INSTALLATION OF WINDOWS SERVER 2016 ESSENTIALS3. WINDOWS SERVER ESSENTIALS USER INTERFACE4. USERS AND FOLDERS 4.1 Setting up Storage Spaces4.2 Creating User Accounts4.3 Managing Users 4.4 Folder Redirection4.5 Relocating the Built-in Server Folders4.6 Creating Additional Folders4.7 User Groups5. CONNECTING COMPUTERS TO THE SERVER5.1 Using the Windows Server Essentials Connector5.2 Additional Considerations When Connecting Windows 8 Clients5.3 Troubleshooting the Windows Server Essentials Connector5.4 Disabling the Launchpad5.5 Adding a Computer to the Domain without using the Connector5.5.1 Connecting Windows XP Clients to the domain5.5.2 Connecting Windows Vista Clients to the domain5.5.3 Connecting Windows 7 Clients to the domain5.5.4 Connecting Windows 8.1 Clients to the domain5.5.5 Connecting Windows 10 Clients to the domain (Classic Method)5.5.6 Connecting Windows 10 Clients to the domain (Modern Method)5.6 Connecting Computers with Home Editions of Windows5.7 Connecting Macs5.7.1 Using the Mac Connector Software5.7.2 Connecting as a Workgroup Member5.7.3 Running Windows on the Mac5.8 Removing a Computer from the Network6. BACKUPS AND RESTORES6.1 Configuring Backups for the Server6.2 Restoring Files to the Server6.3 Backing up to a Network Drive6.4 Configuring Backups for the Computers6.4.1 Changing the Backup Parameters6.4.2 User Initiated Backup6.5 Restoring Data to a Computer 6.6 Client Restore Service6.6.1 Setting up the Service6.6.2 Restoring a Client7. PRINTING 7.1 Networked Printer7.2 Shared Printer via Server8. REMOTE ACCESS8.1 Setting up Anywhere Access8.2 Controlling Anywhere Access for Individual Users8.3 Using Remote Web Access8.4 Customizing the Logon Page8.5 Using the VPN (Virtual Private Network)8.5.1 Windows 8/8.1 Clients8.5.2 Windows 10 Clients8.5.3 Windows 7 Clients8.6 Using Dropbox with Essentials9. HOUSEKEEPING AND MONITORING THE HEALTH OF THE SYSTEM 9.1 Windows Defender9.2 Third Party Antimalware/Antivirus Software9.3 Checking the Dashboard9.4 Generating a Report9.5 Customizing the Health Report9.6 Setting up a Scheduled Health Report9.7 Optimizing the Hard Drives9.8 Applying Windows Updates to the Server9.9 Shutting Down & Restarting the Server9.10 Task Manager and Resource Monitor10. WORKING WITH IPADS AND OTHER DEVICES10.1 Accessing the File System with File Browser10.2 Using Dropbox10.3 My Server App for Windows Phone10.4 Microsoft Remote Desktop app for iOS10.5 Chromebooks11. GROUP POLICY11.1 Group Policy Management Console 11.2 Defining the Internet Home Page for All Users11.3 Windows Logon Behaviour11.4 Logon Warning/Security Message12. OFFICE 36512.1 Preparation12.2 Installation12.3 Creating a New User12.4 Assigning an Existing Local Account12.5 Remote Access to Computers

This supremely organized reference packs hundreds of timesaving solutions, troubleshooting tips, and workarounds for Windows Server 2012 R2 - with a focus on configuration, storage, and essential administrative tasks. Coverage includes: Deployment Boot configuration Administration Configuring roles, role services, and features Managing and troubleshooting hardware TPM and Bitlocker drive encryption Managing the registry Software and user account control administration Managing storage and file systems File sharing and security features Performance monitoring, analyzing, and tuning Backup and recovery

Design, implement, and improve your infrastructure administration with System Center Orchestrator 2012 R2's automation process About This Book Learn about the components of Orchestrator, the design and implementation process, and the way it interacts with your environment to create outstanding automation processes Gain an in-depth understanding of Runbooks, while exploring its security and troubleshooting aspects Follow this step-by-step guide at your own pace and get yourself in the frontline of the Orchestrator world Who This Book Is For This book is targeted for those who want to gain time in their administrative tasks and profit from it to improve also their environment by reaching a more autonomous infrastructure. Experience with other System Center family products as well as Active Directory and other core datacentre components would be useful to help you understand and execute the information given in this book. What You Will Learn Plan, assess, design, and implement Orchestrator 2012 R2 in a corporate environment Master the Runbook Designer and discover all about the Runbook creation process Import and integrate more technologies through new imported functionalities and learn what they bring to your environment Extend your possibilities and interaction with your environment while you get a hand of the best practices for this system Implement high-availability, security, backup, and recovery procedures and fine-tuning of the platform Familiarize yourself with the Runbook design and its implementation with an insight into the methodology for a more dynamic Datacenter In Detail With the increasing complexity of systems in our infrastructure designs, administrating these systems has become more complex and repetitive. This ultimately translates into an inefficient environment and loss of time. System Center Orchestrator 2012 R2 is the tool that can help you regain that time again, by simplifying repetitive tasks (or complex ones) into a simple one that will require minimum intervention from you, or even none. This technology will drive you one step forward towards a more dynamic infrastructure and can also be used to make a customized Private Cloud environment setup. Starting off with the fundamentals of Orchestrator, this book helps you to learn the configuration and deployment of the Orchestrator 2012 R2 in a corporate environment to successfully deploy and mitigate real-life issues that you might encounter. You'll learn the most used part of Orchestrator, the Runbook Designer, with all its components and mechanisms to help you efficiently design and implement your Runbooks from top to bottom. Additionally, you will also get familiarized with configuring key Integration Packs available for Orchestrator to extend its functionality and enhance the automation solution. Furthermore, you will explore the possibilities of extending and integrating Orchestrator with other parties and learn to set up core infrastructure administrative tasks that can save time and effort when automated with Orchestrator. You finally round off by gaining insights on the maintenance aspects of Orchestrator, while simultaneously covering the troubleshooting, backup, and recovery features. Style and approach Written in a step-by-step guide format, the chapters are organized in a sequence of what you need to know first to move on to the next component. Each chapter contains a broad explanation of what we are working on at that moment and the tips provided are based on real-world experience.