Setting Up vSphere Infrastructure: Windows Server 2008 R2 Guide (Part 1)

If you're a virtualization aficionado or someone diving into the labyrinth of enterprise infrastructure, you’ve likely come across the term vSphere. Widely recognized as VMware's flagship suite for server virtualization, vSphere is one of the most powerful tools in the IT industry today. In this guide, specifically for Windows Server 2008 R2, we’ll unpack part one of a tutorial that lays the groundwork for building a complete vSphere infrastructure.
Let’s grab our monitors, virtual machines, and coffee mugs—we’re about to roll up our sleeves to tackle VM Domain Controllers, shared storages, and Active Directory setups!

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What’s the Recipe Here?​

This guide begins the step-by-step process of setting up a vSphere Infrastructure from scratch, starting with the installation and initial configuration of Windows Server 2008 R2—underpinned as the Domain Controller (DC). By the time this series is over, you’ll have:

• Installed critical infrastructure roles like Active Directory (AD), DNS, and shared storage.
• Configured VMware ESXi Hosts, migrated VMs using vMotion, and set up high availability (HA).
• Deployed essential features like VMware Data Recovery (VDR) and NAT configurations.

Here’s the process broken into digestible parts:

• Part 1 (this article): Installing Windows Server 2008 R2 and its foundational configurations.
• Parts 2-8: Diving deeper into vCenter Server, building shared storage, and tackling vSphere services like HA, Fault Tolerance, and migrations.

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Step 1: Installing Windows Server 2008 R2​

Building the base of your infrastructure starts with the Windows Server OS, which will serve as your Domain Controller (DC). Here’s how you can get this done efficiently:

1. Environment Prep – Install VMware Workstation​

Before creating your DC, you’ll need an emulated hardware environment:

1. Install VMware Workstation onto your physical environment. It's your console for managing multiple VMs.
2. Open VMware, navigate to Edit → Preferences. Ensure the VM storage location is changed to a high-performing SSD if you have limited space. Example: F:\VMs.

2. Create the Windows VM​

• Start a new virtual machine and opt for the custom installation option. This bypasses unnecessary automation, giving you full granular control.
• Configure the VM specs:
  • Guest Operating System: Select Microsoft Windows Server 2008 R2.
  • Disk Space: Allocate 40GB for your VM’s storage.
  • Networking: Start with NAT mode; this provides internet access for updates and activation.

3. Install Windows Server 2008 R2​

• Load the ISO image, set the virtual machine to boot from it, and run through the setup wizard.
• Follow best practices like naming your machine appropriately (e.g., "DC" for Domain Controller).

4. Install VMware Tools​

Post-installation, your next critical task is to install VMware Tools:

• Go to the VMware Main Menu > Click on "VM" > Select "Install VMware Tools." This enhances graphics, mouse performance, and better integration between the host and VM.

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Step 2: Initial Windows Server Configuration​

Now that the installation is done, it’s time to configure your new Windows Server to function as a DC.

1. Lingering Housekeeping Tasks​

• Activate your Windows copy (requires a valid license key).
• Adjust settings like time zone, computer name (e.g., "DC"), and assign a static IP address using the .cpl command:
  • Class A Example: IP: 10.0.0.1, Subnet: 255.255.255.0.

2. Prep for Future Roles​

Install the following features via Server Manager:

• .NET Framework 3.5.1: Many VMware components require this as a prerequisite.
• Disable distractions like IE Enhanced Security Configuration and toggle Shutdown Event Tracker off for convenience.

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Step 3: Install DNS and Create Zones​

DNS serves as the backbone for Active Directory and ensures name resolution for your infrastructure. Your objective is to create Forward Lookups and Reverse Lookups zones.

DNS Setup Walkthrough​

1. Access Server Manager → Add Roles. Select the DNS Server role.
2. Configure Forward Lookup Zones:
   • Zone Type: "Primary Zone."
   • Name: yourdomain.com. (e.g., vmnet.local for your lab environment.)
3. Configure Reverse Lookup Zones:
   • Zone Type: "Primary Zone."
   • Address: Use your network ID or similar references.

Run the following command via the console to finalize registration:

ipconfig /registerdns

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Step 4: Build Active Directory Domain Services​

Finally, let’s make your VM function as the heart and soul of your enterprise environment—the Domain Controller. Enter the world of Active Directory Domain Services (ADDS):

1. Use the time-tested dcpromo command for installing ADDS. (Heads up: this command only works for versions prior to Server 2012.)
2. Follow the wizard setup:
   • Create a new domain and forest.
   • Select functional levels: "Server 2008 R2" (offers compatibility but modern features).
   • Configure database and password recovery preferences.

Once rebooted, your active directory instance should show the domain (e.g., yourdomain\admin) at the login screen.

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Deeper Dive: The Road Ahead​

The guide doesn’t end here. Once your DC is running, what’s in store for Part 2? Here’s a sneak peek:

• Adding the vCenter Server to your domain and configuring administrator roles.
• Installing inventory services (think object data management for VMs) and even playing with the vSphere Client for endpoint management.

Other advanced topics in the series include:

• Migrating VMs across hosts using vMotion technology.
• Configuring fault-tolerant systems that auto-switch loads during failures.

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Why Bother with Windows Server 2008 R2 in 2025?​

I know what you’re thinking—“Why are we using Windows Server 2008 R2 in 2025?” While it’s true that this OS is reaching fossil status, using it in a virtualized lab setup still has incredible value for testing legacy setups. Knowledge of legacy tech will often pave the way for managing hybrid systems bridging modern and old applications.

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Key Learning Points​

Here’s the takeaway from today’s session:

• Building a reliable vSphere Infrastructure requires strong fundamentals—in this case, starting with Active Directory and DNS settings.
• Creating system roles like "DNS Forward Zones" ensures seamless name resolution critical for real-world deployments.
• It's not always about having bleeding-edge tech. Understanding legacy systems like Windows Server 2008 R2 hones the skills needed for diverse on-prem systems.

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Get your virtual lab set up and experiment! Next, we dive into the nitty-gritty of installing vCenter Server on the foundation we’ve just created. Have any hiccups or stuck on a step? Drop a comment below so we can troubleshoot!

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Source: Tech Tribune France How To Build VSphere Infrastructure On Windows Server 2008 R2 -Part1