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Why should anyone use Server Core option?
In previous post, I explained you what Server Core option is. As you can see on screen shot, there are no windows, and maybe you are wondering and asking yourself: Why should I use Server Core, why should I go back in time to old DOS systems? There are few got things about Windows Server 2008 Core option, but the basic thing is: by default, nothing is installed. Why is that good? Because, with Server Core you have:
- less need for maintenance. As you have less components, it is less possible that conflict between them will occur.
- decreased attacking surface. Less components means less possibility that attacker will find security error in system.
- less need for patching. No Internet Explorer, no Windows Media Player…
- less occupation of hard disk space. Server Core option takes only 1GB of your hard drive.
- less consumption of RAM. Core takes about 64MB!!! of RAM.
- system is more stable.
- system is more secure.
And yes, there are few cons:
- (no) GUI
- No .Net Framework (for now)
- No .Net Framework -> no PowerShell
- No .Net Framework -> no PowerShell
While looking to pros and cons, I see that Windows Server 2008 Core is great option for virtualization, and for those roles that doesn’t need everyday maintenance (DNS, DHCP…).
By Ilija Brajkovic | May 21, 2008
Tags: 2008, core, server, windows server
Category: server core | Comments
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