Guide to Windows Server 2012 R2

[79wjd]

I have a copy of Windows Server 2012 R2 Essentials and a spare computer lying around (as well as a couple drives), so I'd like to play around with and learn how to use/setup a Windows Server. Is there any good guide/videos I should be sure to read/watch before tinkering? I was going to watch Eli The Computer Guy's series, but I don't feel like spending 20~ hours, and I don't know which are actually important and which aren't to know which ones to skip. 

 

 

TL;DR What's a good resource for Windows Server, what topics are important to know about, and any other general advice before I dive in? 

[alex_read]

Start with DNS, learn all about that side & get your server not only configured with this role but fully tested that all the DNS settings are valid. Install & learn the DHCP role next and finally Active Directory (users & group management and group policy especially). These are the 3 most useful & popular by far.

 

If you really want to learn it well, Eli's series are usually great (though I've not watched the Windows server one myself) or then the MSPress-related MCSE books too (but be prepared that 20+h could easily be the normal or minimum time to learn all that Windows server has to offer - it's not going to be quick!

[alex_read]

BTW, if you wanted to get more heavily into learning it or are later considering taking any exams, please be aware server 2016 is likely coming out in Q3 of this year & introduces even more features https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Windows_Server_2016