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How to Install Windows Server 2025 Standard from a USB Drive: A Step-by-Step Guide

Installing Windows Server 2025 Standard from a USB drive is a streamlined and efficient way to deploy Microsoft’s latest server operating system. Whether you’re setting up a new server or upgrading an existing one, this guide will walk you through the process in a clear, step-by-step manner. Let’s get started.

Step 1: Gather the Required Tools

Before you begin, ensure you have the following:

  • A USB flash drive (at least 8GB, but 16GB or more is recommended)
  • A Windows Server 2025 Standard ISO file (downloaded from Microsoft’s official site)
  • Rufus or another bootable USB creation tool
  • A system where you plan to install Windows Server 2025

Step 2: Create a Bootable USB Drive

  1. Download and Install Rufus – Head to Rufus’ official website and download the latest version.
  2. Insert the USB Drive – Plug in your USB drive and ensure no important data is stored on it, as the process will erase everything.
  3. Launch Rufus and select your USB drive under the Device section.
  4. Click SELECT and choose the Windows Server 2025 ISO file.
  5. Choose GPT (if using UEFI) or MBR (if using legacy BIOS) under Partition Scheme.
  6. Under File System, keep it as NTFS.
  7. Click Start and wait for the process to complete. Once done, your USB is now a bootable Windows Server installation drive.

Step 3: Boot from USB and Begin Installation

  1. Insert the Bootable USB into the target server.
  2. Restart the System and enter BIOS/UEFI by pressing the appropriate key (often F2, F12, DEL, or ESC during startup).
  3. Navigate to Boot Options and set the USB drive as the Primary Boot Device.
  4. Save changes and Exit BIOS. Your server should now boot from the USB drive.
Step 4: Install Windows Server 2025
  1. Once the installer loads, select your language, time, and keyboard preferences, then click Next.
  2. Click Install Now.
  3. If prompted, enter your Windows Server 2025 product key, or click I don’t have a product key to proceed with trial installation.
  4. Choose Windows Server 2025 Standard (Desktop Experience or Core) depending on your preference.
  5. Accept the License Terms and click Next.
  6. Choose Custom: Install Windows only (advanced).
  7. Select the drive where you want to install Windows Server and click Next.
  8. The installation will now begin. The server will restart multiple times during the process.
Step 5: Complete Initial Setup
  1. After installation, you will be prompted to create an Administrator password.
  2. Once set, log in using your new credentials.
  3. Perform initial system configurations using Server Manager, such as setting up networking, updating drivers, and configuring roles and features.
  4. Activate Windows Server using your license key.

Final Thoughts

You have successfully installed Windows Server 2025 Standard from a USB drive! From here, you can configure Active Directory, DNS, DHCP, or any other roles your organization requires. Keeping your server updated and secure should be a top priority, so ensure you install the latest patches and configure security settings appropriately.

Need help with further configuration? Let me know in the comments!