Installation and Configuration of Windows Server 2019 50 User CAL

Before You Begin

Microsoft Windows Server 2019 is an advanced server operating system developed by Microsoft, offering a range of features and capabilities tailored to corporate environments. This article provides a detailed description of the licensing for the 50 User Client Access Licenses (CALs) package for Windows Server 2019 and the support lifecycle of this system.

Licensing Windows Server 2019 User CAL 50 Pack

A Client Access License (CAL) is required for each user or device that accesses Windows Server software. There are two main types of CALs: User CALs and Device CALs.

• User CALs: These licenses are assigned to individual users, allowing them to access the server from multiple devices. This is beneficial for organisations where employees need to access the server from various devices, such as desktop computers, laptops, or mobile devices.

• Device CALs: These licenses are assigned to specific devices, enabling multiple users to access the server from that particular device. This model is beneficial in scenarios where multiple employees share the same workstation.

When purchasing a 50 User CALs package for Windows Server 2019, you are licensing 50 individual users to access the server. It is essential to remember that CALs are version-specific; therefore, CALs for Windows Server 2019 are valid for accessing Windows Server 2019 and earlier versions, but not for later versions. Additionally, CALs are typically sold in various package sizes, including 1, 5, 10, and 50, to cater to different organisational needs.

CALs do not require activation or installation on the server. Instead, they operate on an honour system, where organisations are responsible for ensuring they have the appropriate number of CALs for their users or devices. It is crucial to maintain accurate records of CAL purchases to demonstrate compliance during audits.

In scenarios involving remote access, such as using Remote Desktop Services (RDS), additional RDS CALs are required. These are separate from standard User or Device CALs and are necessary for each user or device that connects to the server remotely.

Windows Server 2019 Support Lifecycle

Windows Server 2019 is subject to Microsoft's fixed lifecycle policy, which includes two main phases: mainstream support and extended support.

• Mainstream Support: This phase began on 13 November 2018 and ended on 9 January 2024. During this period, Microsoft provided regular updates, feature enhancements, and security fixes.

• Extended Support: This phase began on 10 January 2024 and is scheduled to end on 9 January 2029. During this period, Microsoft continues to offer security updates and bug fixes, but does not introduce new features or design changes.

After the extended support ends on 9 January 2029, Windows Server 2019 will no longer receive security updates or technical support from Microsoft. Organisations are encouraged to plan their migration to newer versions or alternative solutions before this date to ensure security and support continuity.

For more detailed information on the Windows Server 2019 support lifecycle, you can refer to Microsoft's official documentation. (learn.microsoft.com)

If you have any further questions or need assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us at [email protected] or call us at 00 800 121 1654.

System Requirements

Below, we present detailed hardware and software requirements for Windows Server 2019, in accordance with Microsoft documentation.

Step 1-N: Step-by-Step Installation

Step 1: Preparing the Installation Media

To begin the installation of Windows Server 2019, you need to prepare the installation media, such as a bootable USB drive or a DVD with the ISO image of the system.

1. Download the Windows Server 2019 ISO image from the official Microsoft website or use the media provided by KluczeSoft.
2. Use a tool like Rufus to create a bootable USB drive. Select the ISO image and the target USB drive, then click "Start".

Step 2: Starting the Installation

1. Insert the prepared installation media into the server and restart it.
2. Set the BIOS/UEFI to boot from the installation media.
3. After the installer loads, select the language, time format, and currency, and keyboard layout, then click "Next".

Step 3: Installing the System

1. Click "Install Now".
2. Enter the product key if required, or select the "I don't have a product key" option to continue the installation in trial mode.
3. Select the version of Windows Server 2019 to install (e.g., Standard or Datacenter) and click "Next".
4. Accept the license terms and click "Next".
5. Select the installation type "Custom: Install only Windows (Advanced)".
6. Select the partition where you want to install the system, or create a new partition if necessary, then click "Next".

Step 4: Post-Installation Configuration

1. After the installation is complete, the system will restart. Configure the initial settings, such as the administrator password.
2. Log in to the system as an administrator and configure basic network settings.
3. Install the latest system updates using Windows Update.

Activating with a Product Key

GUI Method

1. Open "Control Panel" and go to "System and Security" > "System".
2. Click "Change product key" and enter your product key.
3. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the activation process.

Command Line Method

Windows/Server

1. Open the command prompt as an administrator.
2. Enter the following command to install the product key:

   slmgr.vbs /ipk XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX
   

3. Then activate the system using the command:

   slmgr.vbs /ato
   

Office

1. Open the command prompt as an administrator.
2. Go to the directory with the ospp.vbs file, e.g.:

   cd "C:\Program Files\Microsoft Office\Office16"
   

3. Enter the product key using the command:

   cscript ospp.vbs /inpkey:XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX
   

4. Activate Office using the command:

   cscript ospp.vbs /act
   

If you have any questions or need help, please contact us at [email protected] or call 00 800 121 1654.

Activation Verification

Windows/Server

1. Open the command prompt as an administrator.
2. Enter the command:

   slmgr.vbs /xpr
   

   Check if the system is activated.

Office

1. Open the command prompt as an administrator.
2. Go to the directory with the ospp.vbs file, e.g.:

   cd "C:\Program Files\Microsoft Office\Office16"
   

3. Enter the command:

   cscript ospp.vbs /dstatus
   

   Check the Office activation status.

Post-Installation Configuration

After a successful installation and activation of Windows Server 2019, perform the following steps to configure the server for use:

1. Role and feature configuration: Use the Server Manager to add roles and features necessary for your environment, such as Active Directory, DNS, DHCP, etc.
2. Network configuration: Set a static IP address for the server, configure DNS, and set the default gateway.
3. User and group management: Configure user accounts and groups, assigning appropriate permissions and roles.
4. Security: Configure security policies, including the Windows firewall and group policy (GPO).
5. Backups: Configure regular system and data backups to ensure recovery in case of failure.

Troubleshooting

Problem 1: Activation Error 0xC004F074

• Solution: Ensure the server has a valid internet connection and that the KMS service is available. Check DNS settings and try to reactivate the system.

Problem 2: Unable to Install Updates

• Solution: Check if the Windows Update service is enabled and running. Try to run the Windows Update troubleshooter.

Problem 3: Network Connection Issues

• Solution: Check the network configuration, ensure cables are properly connected, and the network card is working correctly. Check firewall settings.

Problem 4: Error Adding Roles

• Solution: Ensure you have the necessary administrative permissions. Check system event logs for more information about the error.

Problem 5: Server Fails to Start

• Solution: Check if all peripheral devices are properly connected. If necessary, start the server in safe mode and check event logs.

Version and Price Comparison at KluczeSoft

Summary

Windows Server 2019 with a 50 User CALs package is an excellent solution for organizations needing a flexible and efficient server system. Remember to regularly update the system and plan migration before the end of support in 2029. If you have any questions or issues, contact our technical support at 00 800 121 1654 or email us at [email protected].