So all the major computer smarties are probably dying in laughter at seeing this question but I'm being serious. I had to wipe my laptop and install Ubuntu since I no longer had the installation disk for Windows 7 Ultimate. I'm going to come right out and say it. After using Windows my whole life I can't stand Linux/Ubuntu. I have to go back to some form of Windows but I have no extra money to spend on buying a new Windows disc (saving up for a new laptop). I have the ability to get Windows Server 2012 for free (Dreamspark) and I am wondering if I could use it as an everyday operating system. I like to play game on my laptop and I also use it during school for schoolwork and not taking. Would I be able to do all of this on the Windows Server 2012 OS? Thanks!
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Yes. You need to add the Desktop Experience feature which is somehow hidden. In order to activate it via the Server Manager, select Add Roles and Features. When Features comes up, expand the User Interfaces and Infrastructure feature and select the Desktop Experience component.
Gi0
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I am going to give two answers:
1) Yes. You can use server 2012 as a desktop OS. However you will face some additional challenges.
- For starters you need to add the desktop experience feature. @GI) already described that.
- Another issue are drivers. Most are written for a specific OS and will refuse to install on an OS which does not match. You can try to force install drivers, but stability is not guaranteed.
2) Why even bother with Server 2012. If the laptop came with a legal windows 7 (and since you got it from a workplace I might hope that it was legal), then you can just ask for the original CoA. With that and an easily found windows 7 DVD you can install the original OS.
Hennes
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