Before You Begin
Microsoft Windows Server 2016 Datacenter is an advanced operating system designed for large data centers and enterprises that require an unlimited number of Hyper-V virtual machines and advanced features such as Storage Spaces Direct, Storage Replica, Shielded VMs, and Software-Defined Networking.
| Version | End of Support Date |
|---|---|
| Windows Server 2016 Datacenter | 12 January 2027 |
By purchasing from KluczeSoft, you receive a license for 16 cores for 1749 zł. Compared to other versions, such as Windows Server 2019 Datacenter (2990 zł), Windows Server 2022 Datacenter (4990 zł), and Windows Server 2025 Datacenter (5990 zł), the 2016 version is more economical, especially if you plan to run more than 2 virtual machines on a single host.
System Requirements
To install Windows Server 2016 Datacenter, your hardware must meet the following requirements:
| Component | Minimum Requirements |
|---|---|
| Processor | 1.4 GHz 64-bit processor |
| RAM | 512 MB (2 GB for Server with Desktop Experience option) |
| Disk Space | Minimum 32 GB |
| Network Card | Gigabit Ethernet |
| Optical Drive | DVD-ROM (optional for installation from media) |
Step 1: Downloading the Installer
To download the Windows Server 2016 Datacenter installer, visit the official Microsoft website and log in to your account. You can download the ISO image, which can then be burned to a DVD or used to create a bootable USB drive.
Step 2: Installation
- Start the computer from the installation media (DVD or USB).
- Select the language, time format, and currency, and keyboard, and then click "Next".
- Click "Install Now".
- Enter the product key if prompted.
- Select the "Windows Server 2016 Datacenter" version and click "Next".
- Accept the license terms and click "Next".
- Choose the installation type: "Custom" for a new installation.
- Select the partition where you want to install the system and click "Next".
The installation will begin, and the computer may restart several times.
Activating with a Product Key
After completing the installation, activate Windows Server 2016 Datacenter using the following steps:
GUI Method
- Open "Control Panel".
- Go to "System and Security" > "System".
- Click "Change product key" and enter your key.
Command Line Method
Open the command line as an administrator and enter the following commands:
slmgr.vbs /ipk YOUR-PRODUCT-KEY
slmgr.vbs /ato
Verifying Activation
To confirm that the system has been successfully activated, enter the following command in the command line:
slmgr.vbs /dli
You should see information about the license status.
Post-Installation Configuration
- Configure network settings so that the server can communicate with other devices.
- Install the latest system updates using Windows Update.
- Configure server roles and features according to your organization's needs.
If you have any questions or need assistance, please contact us at [email protected] or call 00 800 121 1654.
Troubleshooting
Problem: Activation error 0xC004F074
Solution: Ensure the server has an internet connection and try to activate the system again.
Problem: Installation failed with error 0x80070057
Solution: Check if the hard drive is properly formatted and if it has enough space.
Problem: Server does not start after installation
Solution: Check the BIOS settings and ensure the installation media has been removed.
Problem: No network connection
Solution: Check the network card configuration and ensure the drivers are updated.
Licensing and Pricing
| Version | Price at KluczeSoft |
|---|---|
| Windows Server 2016 Datacenter | 1749 zł |
| Windows Server 2019 Datacenter | 2990 zł |
| Windows Server 2022 Datacenter | 4990 zł |
| Windows Server 2025 Datacenter | 5990 zł |
Choose the Datacenter version if you plan to run more than 2 virtual machines on a single host, which is more cost-effective than purchasing multiple Standard licenses.
Summary
Windows Server 2016 Datacenter is an excellent choice for large enterprises requiring advanced features and an unlimited number of virtual machines. If you have any questions, please contact Microsoft support at 00 800 121 1654 or email us at [email protected] for assistance.