Access to this page requires authorization. You can try signing in or changing directories . Access to this page requires authorization. You can try changing directories . Applies to: ✅ Windows Server 2025 , ✅ Windows Server 2022 , ✅ Windows Server 2019 , ✅ Windows Server 2016 When you install Windows Server using the setup wizard, you can choose between Server Core or Server with Desktop Experience install options. With Server Core, the standard graphical user interface (the Desktop Experience) isn't installed; you manage the server from the command line using PowerShell, the Server Configuration tool (SConfig) , or by remote methods. Server with Desktop Experience installs the standard graphical user interface and all tools, including client experience features. We recommend that you choose the Server Core install option unless you have a particular need for the extra user interface elements and graphical management tools that are included in the Server with Desktop Experience install option. The setup wizard lists the install options. In this list, editions without Desktop Experience are the Server Core install options: Windows Server Standard Windows Server Standard with Desktop Experience Windows Server Datacenter

Windows Server Datacenter with Desktop Experience Unlike some previous releases of Windows Server, you can't convert between Server Core and Server with Desktop Experience after installation. You'll need to do a clean installation if you install later decide to use a different option. There are some key differences between Server Core and Server with Desktop Experience: For RSAT, you must use the version included with Windows 10 or later. Was this page helpful? Need help with this topic? Want to try using Ask Learn to clarify or guide you through this topic? Additional resources Last updated on 2025-04-15