Updated: July 16, 2020 (September 26, 2017)
Analyst ReportComparing Windows Server Installation Modes
Windows Server 2016 can be deployed in three different install modes: Desktop Experience, Server Core, and Nano. Each supports different server roles and features and requires a different servicing process and licensing. Application servers, file servers, Remote Desktop servers, and other stable systems in traditional roles are still best installed with Desktop Experience or Server Core and updated only with security and quality fixes. However, virtualized, highly automated data centers and containerized applications could benefit from new install modes and servicing options coming in late 2017. The changes could also require a few organizations to rebuild servers already deployed.
Desktop Experience
Windows Server 2016 with Desktop Experience provides the “traditional” Windows Server experience; it installs the Windows graphical user interface (GUI) and all tools.
Desktop Experience supports all built-in Windows Server roles and features, and it is required for several use cases:
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