Install the Hyper-V role on Windows Server 2008

What is Hyper-V?

A virtual machine is a pretend computer that runs inside a real one. Hyper-V is the Microsoft tool that makes and runs them. Think of a big house split into separate flats. Each flat has its own door and its own life. A role is a job that you give to a Windows server.

You need administrator access to the server. On a dedicated server you have it. Your computer's processor must support virtualization, and it must be turned on in the BIOS. The BIOS is the setup screen that shows when the machine starts. Hyper-V in Windows Server 2008 needs a 64-bit edition.

Tip: Windows Server 2008 is old. Newer versions of Windows Server install Hyper-V in a similar way, with changed menu looks.

Steps

1. Log in to the server as an administrator.
2. Open Server Manager. It is in the Start menu or on the taskbar.
3. In the left list, click Roles.
4. Click Add Roles. A wizard opens.
5. Read the first page. Click Next.
6. Tick the box for Hyper-V. Click Next.
7. Read the notes about Hyper-V. Click Next.
8. Choose the network card for virtual machines. This lets them reach the network. Click Next.
9. Check the summary. Click Install.
10. Wait for the install to end. It can take some minutes.
11. Click Close. The server asks you to restart. Click Yes.
12. After the restart, log in again. The wizard finishes the last part. Click Close when it says it is done.

Start using it

1. Open Start, then Administrative Tools, then Hyper-V Manager.
2. In the right panel, click New, then Virtual Machine.
3. Follow the wizard. Give a name, memory size and disk size.

If the Hyper-V option is missing or grey, virtualization may be off in the BIOS. Ask Hostvento support whether your server has it enabled.

Quick recap

• Hyper-V runs virtual machines on Windows Server.
• Open Server Manager, click Roles, then Add Roles.
• Tick Hyper-V, choose a network card and install.
• Restart, then open Hyper-V Manager.