How to install Desktop Experience Feature in Windows 2012 r2

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Windows Server 2012 is designed primarily for server environments, but in some cases, you may need a more user-friendly interface that resembles a traditional Windows desktop. To achieve this, you can install the Desktop Experience feature, which brings elements like Windows Media Player, desktop themes, and the ability to view videos and play music directly on the server. Here's a step-by-step guide to installing the Desktop Experience feature in Windows Server 2012.

What is the Desktop Experience Feature?

The Desktop Experience feature in Windows Server 2012 provides a set of tools and interface elements that make the server look and function more like a standard Windows desktop. This is particularly useful if you're using the server as a terminal server or if you need to provide a familiar environment for users who are not comfortable with a command-line interface.

Step-by-Step Installation Guide

  1. Access Server Manager

    The Server Manager is the hub for managing server roles and features in Windows Server 2012. To open it:

    • Click the Start button or press the Windows key.
    • Select Server Manager from the list of available programs.

  2. Add Roles and Features

    Once Server Manager is open:

    • In the Dashboard section, click on Add roles and features. This will open the Add Roles and Features Wizard.
    • Click Next to proceed through the wizard.

  3. Select Installation Type

    • On the Select Installation Type page, choose Role-based or feature-based installation and click Next.

  4. Choose the Destination Server

    • On the Select Destination Server page, ensure your server is selected, then click Next.

  5. Skip Roles Selection

    • On the Select Server Roles page, you don't need to select anything, so just click Next to move on to the Features page.

  6. Select Desktop Experience Feature

    • On the Select Features page, scroll down to find User Interfaces and Infrastructure.
    • Expand this option and check the box next to Desktop Experience.
    • A dialog box will appear, notifying you of additional features required. Click Add Features to include them.
    • After confirming the required features, click Next.

  7. Confirm Installation Selections

    • On the Confirm Installation Selections page, review your selections.
    • You can choose to restart the server automatically if required by selecting the Restart the destination server automatically if required checkbox.
    • Click Install to begin the installation.

  8. Complete Installation

    • The installation process will take a few minutes. Once completed, you may need to restart your server.
    • If you didn't select automatic restart, you'll be prompted to do so manually. Click Close after the installation is complete.

  9. Post-Installation Setup

    • After the server restarts, log back in.
    • The Desktop Experience feature will now be active, providing a more traditional desktop environment.

  10. Verify Installation

    • Once logged back in, check to see if features like Windows Media Player, desktop themes, and other user-friendly elements are available.
    • You can access these by clicking the Start button and navigating to the All Programs section.

Additional Tips

  • Disk Cleanup: After installing the Desktop Experience, you also get access to Disk Cleanup, which can help manage disk space by removing unnecessary files.
  • Automatic Updates: Ensure that your server is set up to receive updates for the Desktop Experience components by configuring Windows Update.

Conclusion

Installing the Desktop Experience feature in Windows Server 2012 can make the server more accessible to users who prefer a traditional Windows desktop environment. This feature is easy to install through the Server Manager and can provide added functionality such as multimedia capabilities, making your server more versatile in various scenarios.