Connecting to Internet?

[lazyfortress]

Hello, I haven't been on for a while.  I have a Dell PowerEdge 1950, and I just bought a WiFi card for it today.  I just don't know how to access internet settings on it.  I've tried pressing F2 and F10, along with DRAC configuration.  How do I have it connect to my home network and enter in the WiFi password?  I'm trying to make the server into a file server.  I'd like to be able to access my server from school.

 

Also, how do I uninstall CentOS 7?  I'm planning on buying Windows Server 2008, and my server has CentOS 7 installed.

 

Any help is appreciated!  

 

[kb5zue]

25 minutes ago, lazyfortress said:

Hello, I haven't been on for a while.  I have a Dell PowerEdge 1950, and I just bought a WiFi card for it today.  I just don't know how to access internet settings on it.  I've tried pressing F2 and F10, along with DRAC configuration.  How do I have it connect to my home network and enter in the WiFi password?  I'm trying to make the server into a file server.  I'd like to be able to access my server from school.

 

Also, how do I uninstall CentOS 7?  I'm planning on buying Windows Server 2008, and my server has CentOS 7 installed.

 

Any help is appreciated!  

 

According to the folks at Dell, this system includes:

 

Dual embedded Broadcom® NetXtreme II™ 5708 Gigabit2 Ethernet NIC with fail-over and load balancing; TOE (TCPIP Offload Engine) supported on Microsoft Windows Server 2003, SP1 or higher with Scalable Networking Pack.

 

So once you get it running, you should be able to download everything you need but for the time being, you don't need wifi, just plug your ethernet cable in to the thing.

[NelizMastr]

12 hours ago, lazyfortress said:

Hello, I haven't been on for a while.  I have a Dell PowerEdge 1950, and I just bought a WiFi card for it today.  I just don't know how to access internet settings on it.  I've tried pressing F2 and F10, along with DRAC configuration.  How do I have it connect to my home network and enter in the WiFi password?  I'm trying to make the server into a file server.  I'd like to be able to access my server from school.

 

Also, how do I uninstall CentOS 7?  I'm planning on buying Windows Server 2008, and my server has CentOS 7 installed.

 

Any help is appreciated!  

 

Without a GUI, you can't connect to Wi-Fi. It's not common to use Wi-Fi on a server anyway. Also, Server 2008 is hella old. Get at least 2008R2. Also, you don't uninstall an OS, just delete the partitions and format the drive with your Windows installer when that time arrives.

[Mikensan]

Since you're a student I imagine you have an email address from school. Head over to dreamspark (or whatever they call it now) and download Server 2016 for free.

https://imagine.microsoft.com/en-us/custom/Dreamspark

 

Once you have windows, you can figure out how to join the wireless network. In your scenario, you cannot just join a wireless network outside of the operating system.

[lazyfortress]

The reason why I bought the WiFi card was to avoid the hassle of carrying the 55 pound server up 2 flights of stairs so I can connect it to the main router via ethernet. 

 

My problem right now is finding network options.  I've tried pressing F2, but I can't find a "enter WiFi address/name + password".  Don't you need WiFi to get the server online? 

 

When I type in "ip addr" in CentOS 7, it gives me my server's address.  I tried entering in the IP address I saw, but I can't connect to it (because no internet connection on my server?).

 

I just need to find the right key that allows me to access internet options.  CentOS 7 has no GUI, which is why I'm planning on buying Windows Server 2008R2.

 

Windows Server 2008 has to be easier with finding internet options...  I just want to be able to access my server remotely and be able to take files on and off of it.  Hopefully having Windows on it will make this ordeal a lot easier!

[Mikensan]

The reason why I bought the WiFi card was to avoid the hassle of carrying the 55 pound server up 2 flights of stairs so I can connect it to the main router via ethernet. 

 

My problem right now is finding network options.  I've tried pressing F2, but I can't find a "enter WiFi address/name + password".  Don't you need WiFi to get the server online? 

You need to boot into windows or linux or whatever. I'm not sure what you've read to make you believe it works in this manner, but it doesn't. You cannot configure the wireless settings before loading your operating system.

 

When I type in "ip addr" in CentOS 7, it gives me my server's address.  I tried entering in the IP address I saw, but I can't connect to it (because no internet connection on my server?).

Did you join the wifi network in CentOS 7? Without a GUI it's a challenge to join a wifi network. I'd suggest downloading CentOS 7 onto a USB and re-install it with a GUI. (No need to carry it upstairs, use a laptop / desktop or some other computer in your house) Type StartX to see if a GUI will load.

 

I just need to find the right key that allows me to access internet options.  CentOS 7 has no GUI, which is why I'm planning on buying Windows Server 2008R2.

There is ...no.... key to press to configure the wifi. At all. That's not how it works. If you read my earlier post in its entirety, you can use dreamspark and get windows server for free. 

 

 

Alternative you can return your wireless card and use ethernet over powerline adapters:

http://a.co/8BNdjN3

[lazyfortress]

Well shoot!  That's probably why I saw WiFi settings when I was installing CentOS 7.  Well later today when I get done with homework, I'll download Windows Server, or I'll try the StartX thing like you suggested. 

 

I gotta go for now, but I'll be back later!  I'll tell ya how it goes!

[lazyfortress]

How much memory does Windows Server 2016 take?  I'm trying to put it on a 8GB thumb drive.  It's downloading right now on my gaming computer, but how would I move it to my thumb drive, and then run it on my server? 

 

I'll have to do all this tomorrow as I'm doing a lengthy lab report, but just curious.

 

Thanks!

[Mikensan]

13 hours ago, lazyfortress said:

How much memory does Windows Server 2016 take?  I'm trying to put it on a 8GB thumb drive.  It's downloading right now on my gaming computer, but how would I move it to my thumb drive, and then run it on my server? 

 

I'll have to do all this tomorrow as I'm doing a lengthy lab report, but just curious.

 

Thanks!

The installation media is probably around 4-6gb at most. Windows has a tool to make your life easier though I cannot think of the name.

Ah here it is:

https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/download/windows-usb-dvd-download-tool

 

Use that guide to make your flash drive ready to install winders.

[lazyfortress]

Well, Windows Server 2016 is installed and all, but do I have to connect it via ethernet?  Why will it not use my WiFi card instead of using ethernet?  Is there any way to have it recognize my WiFi card that's connected to the PCIE slot and use it instead of ethernet?

[pwakham]

4 hours ago, lazyfortress said:

Well, Windows Server 2016 is installed and all, but do I have to connect it via ethernet?  Why will it not use my WiFi card instead of using ethernet?  Is there any way to have it recognize my WiFi card that's connected to the PCIE slot and use it instead of ethernet?

You will have to install the drivers for it. Either use the disk that came with the card and install that then update the driver. Or use a different computer, download the driver put it on a flash drive and pop it in the server. 

 

Keep in mind you'll probably have to activate windows, i've personally never used dreamspark so it might come activated... idk. and don't forget updates!

 

P.S. 

I know it is a hassle but you really should be hard wired in. Not only do you get better speeds, your connection will be stable. If your server is two flights below you you will probably get poor reception anyway. If you arent tech savvy enough to do it, have a professional install a cable that runs from the router to the server.

[bcguru9384]

4 hours ago, lazyfortress said:

Well, Windows Server 2016 is installed and all, but do I have to connect it via ethernet?  Why will it not use my WiFi card instead of using ethernet?  Is there any way to have it recognize my WiFi card that's connected to the PCIE slot and use it instead of ethernet?

if card is recognized under device manager but no driver click the device and select install then choose list of drivers that are in machine

choose one from the card manufacturer that most closely match

run install if card does not work try another from list as eventually you may find a driver that will work for basic connect and download of real driver

or get an old router(wrt54g from linksys and flash ddwrt or openwrt to it) then read sites help file for turning router into a wifi client that then send the internet signal via routers lan ports to server lan port

[pwakham]

1 minute ago, bcguru9384 said:

if card is recognized under device manager but no driver click the device and select install then choose list of drivers that are in machine

choose one from the card manufacturer that most closely match

run install if card does not work try another from list as eventually you may find a driver that will work for basic connect and download of real driver

or get an old router(wrt54g from linksys and flash ddwrt or openwrt to it) then read sites help file for turning router into a wifi client that then send the internet signal via routers lan ports to server lan port

Or you could download the real driver and not waste time switching drivers through windows!

[bcguru9384]

1 minute ago, pwakham said:

Or you could download the real driver and not waste time switching drivers through windows!

just showing options

[NelizMastr]

WLAN support is disabled in Windows Server by default. You need to add that feature manually through the server manager. Great that you have a driver, but if the OS has the feature disabled, not much will happen

 

Open the server manager, click add roles and features, click through the wizard until you reach features and select WLAN-service (Wireless LAN). Install it and start the service in services.msc if needed. Then connect as you would in Winblows 10. 

[pwakham]

7 hours ago, NelizMastr said:

WLAN support is disabled in Windows Server by default. You need to add that feature manually through the server manager. Great that you have a driver, but if the OS has the feature disabled, not much will happen

 

Open the server manager, click add roles and features, click through the wizard until you reach features and select WLAN-service (Wireless LAN). Install it and start the service in services.msc if needed. Then connect as you would in Winblows 10. 

I completley forgot about this! ahhhh remember when server 2008 r2 had it enabled by default? lol

[lazyfortress]

YES I CONNECTED IT TO WIFI!  I FINALLY DID IT!  THANK YOU ALL!

 

Sorry for all caps, but I'm truly excited XD. 

 

Now my only question is how to access my server from my mac and be able to store files on it.  How do I do this?

 

Edit:  I've been trying to set the remote access controls myself, but I have no idea how to even access the server from my computer. I'm entering in the server's IP address, but nothing's showing up.  I've even tried this IIS thing, but it needs an access token.  I'm so confused.

[pwakham]

3 hours ago, lazyfortress said:

YES I CONNECTED IT TO WIFI!  I FINALLY DID IT!  THANK YOU ALL!

 

Sorry for all caps, but I'm truly excited XD. 

 

Now my only question is how to access my server from my mac and be able to store files on it.  How do I do this?

 

Edit:  I've been trying to set the remote access controls myself, but I have no idea how to even access the server from my computer. I'm entering in the server's IP address, but nothing's showing up.  I've even tried this IIS thing, but it needs an access token.  I'm so confused.

As far as file server duties go, macs are horrible in networking. You’ll have to go to the server manager add the file server role (if not already installed) then you will need to make a folder you want to share. Right click, properties, sharing and name it what you want and set permissions. Make sure your Mac and server are on the same network not a subnet or anything like that. Press command+k type in the up address of the server enter login info and you should be connected 

[lazyfortress]

6 minutes ago, pwakham said:

As far as file server duties go, macs are horrible in networking. You’ll have to go to the server manager add the file server role (if not already installed) then you will need to make a folder you want to share. Right click, properties, sharing and name it what you want and set permissions. Make sure your Mac and server are on the same network not a subnet or anything like that. Press command+k type in the up address of the server enter login info and you should be connected 

The problem is that I can't even access my server from any computer.  I'm not sure why.  It's connected to the internet, but every time I try accessing the IP address, nothing shows up.  There's no connection. 

 

I gotta go to bed, and I'll work on it tomorrow as soon as I get home from school!

[pwakham]

Enabling network discovery (these services must be started: DNS Client, Function Discovery Resource Publication, SSDP Discovery, UPnP Device Host) when you start them make sure to set them to automatic so any time the server has to restart you dont have to turn them on again

[lazyfortress]

13 hours ago, pwakham said:

Enabling network discovery (these services must be started: DNS Client, Function Discovery Resource Publication, SSDP Discovery, UPnP Device Host) when you start them make sure to set them to automatic so any time the server has to restart you dont have to turn them on again

Where do I go in Windows Server 2016 to start those services?  I'm sorry, but I do not understand.  I just want to be able to access my server from any computer and be able to configure it, and possibly store files in the near future.

 

Edit:  My server says that it's online, and I can use remote access.  I tried typing in the IP addresses on my browser, but it tells me "Site can't be reached", which means my server isn't online.  I read something online about ports, and port 68 is remote access.  I checked my server, and it says that 0 ports are in use.

 

Edit 2:  I went on the Enable DirectAccess Wizard, and it says "Remote Access server does not belong to a domain."  Do I have to connect my server to a website now?

[Mikensan]

What type of "remote access" do you need? Do you want a website? File server? Remote Desktop?

[lazyfortress]

For now I just want remote access.  In a few weeks I was considering doing a file server once I can use remote desktop.  For now, I guess remote desktop.

[Mikensan]

5 minutes ago, lazyfortress said:

For now I just want remote access.  In a few weeks I was considering doing a file server once I can use remote desktop.  For now, I guess remote desktop.

So you want remote desktop? Do you want to be able to remote desktop from your Mac, or from outside of your house, or both?

[lazyfortress]

Both I guess.  Which would be easier?  Sorry for the late response, my server just finished updating.