In this article, we explain how to install Windows Server on your VPS through the VPS panel.

Note: An installation or rebuild removes the existing data on your VPS. Make a backup first if the VPS contains important files.

Which VPS package do I need for Windows?

Windows Server needs more memory than a lightweight Linux installation. Use at least a VPS with 4 GB RAM.

At Etheron, this means at least:

• VPS X4 or higher for Budget VPS;
• VPS G4 or higher for Game VPS.

Smaller packages with 1 GB or 2 GB RAM are meant for lightweight Linux services and are not suitable for Windows Server.

What do you need?

• A suitable Etheron VPS with at least 4 GB RAM
• Access to the VPS panel via cloud.ping64.net
• Your own Windows Server license or an allowed evaluation period
• VNC access for the first configuration

Installing Windows

1. Log in to cloud.ping64.net.

2. Choose the VPS on which you want to install Windows and click Manage.

3. Click Rebuild or start the installation through Server Setup....

Note: A rebuild reinstalls the VPS. Files and settings that were already on the VPS may be lost.

1. Fill in the basic details, such as the server name, hostname, and timezone.

2. Under Operating System, choose Windows Server and select the Windows Server version you want to install.

3. Check the extra options, such as swap, IPv6, and any SSH keys.

4. Start the installation with the Install with Windows Server button.

Wait until the installation is fully completed. This can take several minutes.

Opening Windows for the first time

Remote Desktop is not always enabled immediately after installation. Use VNC first.

1. Open your VPS in the VPS panel.

2. Go to Options → VNC.

3. Click Enable VNC Access.

4. Click Browser VNC to open the console.

5. Log in to Windows. The username is usually Administrator. The password can be found in the delivery email or reset through the VPS panel.

If the password does not work, reset it through the VPS panel and restart the VPS afterwards.

Important: Disable VNC again after use with Disable VNC Access.

Enabling Remote Desktop

Do you want to connect through Remote Desktop afterwards? Enable it inside Windows first.

1. Log in through VNC.

2. Open Server Manager.

3. Click Local Server.

4. Click Disabled next to Remote Desktop.

5. Choose Allow remote connections to this computer and save the change.

You can then connect from your own computer using Remote Desktop.

Use:

• Computer: the IP address of your VPS;
• Username: Administrator;
• Password: the Windows password of your VPS.

Activating and updating Windows

Use your own Windows Server license or an allowed evaluation period. Then install Windows Updates through Settings → Update & Security.

Updates can take a while and Windows may ask you to restart.

Troubleshooting

First, check the following:

• your VPS has at least 4 GB RAM;
• the installation has fully completed;
• you can connect through VNC;
• Remote Desktop is enabled inside Windows;
• Windows Firewall allows Remote Desktop;
• you are using the correct IP address, username, and password.

If it still does not work, feel free to reach out via Discord or create a support ticket.