Windows dedicated server
Explore our Windows Server-compatible dedicated servers
All of our dedicated servers can be used with the latest version of Windows. This delivers the reliability of a popular operating system, as well as a panel of ready-to-use operating systems for your business. You get an easy-to-use web hosting space for your business applications, with efficient network management, along with services that track the progress of your activity. Manage your projects in a dedicated Windows environment, designed for professional usage on a dedicated server.
The fundamentals of Windows Server
Windows Server is a robust server platform, widely used for its performance and versatility in diverse enterprise environments. As an operating system designed specifically for networks, data storage, and web applications, Windows Server helps optimise the management of your IT resources while ensuring the security and stability of your infrastructure.
What is Windows Server used for?
The primary role of Windows Server is to provide a solid foundation for enterprise IT and application management. This platform enables the installation and management of multiple tools, including SQL Server for database management and Active Directory for user and network resource management. Windows Server also offers extensive capabilities for virtualisation with Hyper-V, allowing organisations to create virtual machines to optimise their resources and network (such as Remote Desktop Services or RDS). Recent versions of Windows Server also include significant improvements in security, container management, and cloud interoperability, making it a preferred choice for demanding work environments.
Who uses Windows Server?
Windows Server is used by a variety of users, ranging from small and medium businesses to large multinational corporations. IT administrators, software developers, and IT security professionals are among the main users of Windows Server. They exploit its advanced features to host websites, manage databases, and run critical business applications. And with flexible licensing options and the ability to handle heavy workloads, Windows Server is also a popular choice in education and government, where effective data management and security are paramount.
Why choose an OVHcloud Windows dedicated server?
Windows environment
One of the main advantages of a Windows dedicated server is that it provides a familiar environment for users. Its use is also more intuitive, which saves time compared to other operating systems, such as Linux. Furthermore, Windows Server is adapted to suit the needs of companies wishing to focus primarily on their core business. This operating system ensures smooth management of business-critical data and tools.
Scalability
Server scalability and your company’s overall infrastructure are crucial factors when it comes to choosing your products. Windows Server natively offers a number of solutions to support your evolving IT needs. The Hyper-V hypervisor allows you to manage your workloads efficiently, optimising the use of your servers’ disk space, RAM, CPUs and bandwidth. It can also be used in synergy with RDS, maximising your operational efficiency while delivering an improved and secure user experience.
Security
The Windows Server operating system is designed for business usage, and is equipped with an elaborate security system to minimise potential intrusions and damage to your infrastructure. Applications are isolated to protect asses such as your critical databases, and your network is controlled for maximum security. Ideal for hosting your professional web applications, you also benefit from robust backup systems.
Windows Server Standard Edition
The Standard Edition license is designed for small and medium-sized businesses with moderate virtualisation needs. This means you get a maximum of two virtual machines, with one Hyper-V host per license, for unlimited Windows container creation.
Windows Server Datacenter Edition
Offering more functionality than the standard edition, the Datacenter Edition license is ideal for companies with advanced virtualisation needs. It authorises an unlimited number of virtual machines, with one Hyper-V host per licence. This edition includes Hyper-V Host Guardian support, which allows you to use shielded VMs for enhanced security. All types of containers are usable, with no limit on the number.
Windows licences and pricing
When you place an order, you can choose between two types of Windows Server licences: Standard edition and Datacenter edition. You can also order a licence directly via your OVHcloud Control Panel. The price of a Windows dedicated server depends on the server, as well as the type of licence you choose.
Installing and managing your Windows server
Efficiently installing and managing your Windows server is essential for maximising the performance and security of your IT infrastructure. Here’s how to start and manage your Windows server with OVHcloud.
How do I deploy Windows Server on my infrastructure?
Windows Server is an operating system that can be installed on physical machines in your data centre or deployed as a virtual server in the cloud. Thus, at OVHcloud, you can choose between installing Windows Server directly on your dedicated server or using it on a virtual machine via our cloud service. This flexibility enables organisations of all sizes to take advantage of the resilience of Windows Server, regardless of their location or infrastructure.
How do I install Windows Server?
Installing Windows Server on a dedicated server at OVHcloud is a simple and straightforward process. Once you have chosen your server and the appropriate license, you can begin the installation by following a few steps.
- Access the OVHcloud Control Panel: log into the Control Panel and select the server on which you want to install Windows Server.
- Configure your server: configure the basic settings, such as selecting your operating system (in this case Windows Server). You can choose between different versions, Standard edition or Datacenter edition, depending on your virtualisation and management needs.
- Launch the installation: once the configuration is complete, launch the installation. OVHcloud will automate the installation process, ensuring that the operating system is correctly installed with all necessary security and management features enabled.
- Customisation and management: after installation, you can customise your server to your specific needs, install additional applications, and configure network and security settings.
Maximise your Windows dedicated server potential with OVHcloud
Harness the full power of your Windows dedicated server thanks to OVHcloud’s advanced solutions. With extensive customisation options (e.g. RDS), network management services, and dedicated technical support, we are committed to providing a powerful and secure platform to host your critical solutions, manage your high-volume data, and support your business growth. Whether you operate a website, SQL database, or applications, your OVHcloud Windows dedicated server is designed to deliver performance, reliability, and scalability.
Your questions answered
How can OVHcloud’s Windows dedicated servers improve performance?
OVHcloud Windows Dedicated Servers are created to deliver optimal performance, thanks to their high-end hardware architecture and advanced network configuration. They support intensive operations such as large databases, real-time transaction processing, and applications that require high availability. Moreover, OVHcloud allows for the allocation of dedicated resources (CPU, RAM, bandwidth), thus ensuring smooth and efficient operation, without the latencies often encountered in shared environments.
What customisation options does OVHcloud offer for Windows dedicated servers?
OVHcloud offers a wide range of customisation options for its Windows dedicated servers, allowing users to choose the type and quantity of hardware resources according to their specific needs. Customers can thus choose from different processor configurations, RAM quantities, and storage capabilities, including SSDs for increased performance. OVHcloud also offers operating system options, pre-installed versions of Windows Server, and additional software for a turnkey experience tailored to a range of business needs.
Can I migrate existing applications to a Windows dedicated server with OVHcloud?
Yes, it is entirely possible to migrate existing services to a Windows dedicated server with OVHcloud. There are tools and support services available to help you with this migration. To do this, we first evaluate your solutions to ensure their compatibility with the Windows Server environment. We then offer managed migration services, where our specialists take charge of the migration, ensuring secure data transfers and minimising downtime. You can also get advice on how to optimise your applications post-migration.
What guarantees does OVHcloud offer in terms of availability and reliability for Windows dedicated servers?
OVHcloud is committed to providing high availability and reliability for all of its Windows dedicated servers. This is achieved through service level agreements (SLAs) that guarantee high operational availability, often exceeding 99.9%. Our data centres are equipped with redundancy systems for power supply and network connectivity, as well as advanced physical and cyber security measures to protect customer infrastructure and data.
What specific security measures does OVHcloud implement for Windows dedicated servers?
We take security very seriously, especially for Windows dedicated servers, which often host critical data and applications. Our robust security measures include our advanced anti-DDoS protection, configurable firewalls and full server isolation. We also offer automatic backup and snapshot options, allowing for fast recovery in the event of data loss. Regular audits, proactive security updates, and the support of a dedicated security support team are also in place to ensure your servers remain protected against new vulnerabilities and threats.
In accordance with the amended Directive 2006/112/EC, from 01/01/2015, the prices inclusive of tax may vary according to the customer's country of residence (by default, the displayed prices include the applicable French VAT).
How do I secure a Windows server?
The security of a Windows server is a major issue for any company wishing to protect its data, applications, and IT environment. Windows Server incorporates numerous security features designed to limit threats and enhance the protection of the operating system.
To secure a Windows server, it is recommended to:
- regularly install updates and patches for the latest version of Windows Server;
- enable Microsoft Defender and advanced protection tools;
- configure a firewall and appropriate group policies;
- manage user access with Active Directory;
- implement regular backups of files and data;
- monitor the network and critical services of the server.
Modern versions such as Windows Server 2019, Server 2022, or Microsoft Server 2025 offer advanced support for cloud and hybrid security. This solution also allows for better management of data centre resources and protects the system against cyberattacks.
How can OVHcloud’s Windows dedicated servers improve the performance of applications?
OVHcloud's dedicated Windows servers provide a powerful infrastructure designed to enhance the performance, availability, and flexibility of professional solutions. Thanks to a configuration tailored to business needs, these servers offer optimised management of load and IT resources.
With Windows Server, organisations can utilise Microsoft tools, manage databases, host network services, or deploy high-performance cloud environments. OVHcloud’s dedicated servers also offer:
- a large capacity for data storage and processing;
- low network latency to improve response times;
- full compatibility with Active Directory;
- advanced backup and security solutions;
- administrator access to configure and manage the server according to needs.
This server solution is particularly suited to organisations seeking a reliable platform for critical applications, high-traffic websites, or modern data centre infrastructures.
How to administer a Windows server?
Administering a Windows server relies on various tools and features integrated into Windows Server. The Server Manager allows for centralised system configuration, role installation, and user management within an intuitive graphical interface.
The administration team can also install, configure, and use PowerShell to automate certain tasks, manage network resources, and monitor the IT environment. Active Directory facilitates the administration of access, groups, and security policies within the organisation.
To effectively administer a Windows server, it is advisable to:
- keep the system updated with the latest patches;
- configure network services and user access;
- monitor the server’s performance and load;
- secure data with regular backups;
- use tools like Windows Admin Center to simplify administration.
Recent versions of Windows Server offer a modern experience tailored to hybrid and cloud infrastructures.
What are the advantages of Windows Server?
Windows Server is a Microsoft server solution recognised for its flexibility, performance, and numerous professional features. This operating system is designed to securely manage modern IT infrastructures. It is therefore a solution that meets the needs of professionals of all sizes.
Among the main advantages of Windows Server are:
- simplified administration thanks to an intuitive user interface;
- complete integration with the Microsoft ecosystem;
- advanced security and data protection features;
- excellent compatibility with business applications;
- support for cloud and hybrid environments;
- optimised performance for dedicated servers and data centres.
Windows Server also has the advantage of efficiently managing users, files, network services, and applications. The Standard and Datacentre editions offer features suited to different levels of use and virtualisation.
What is Windows Server?
Windows Server is a server operating system developed by Microsoft to manage network infrastructures, applications, and professional IT services. Unlike a standard version of Windows intended for the general public, Windows Server is designed to administer shared resources and provide services to many users.
This solution notably allows:
- to host applications and websites;
- manage user access with Active Directory;
- to share files and network resources;
- to configure cloud environments;
- to secure data and IT services.
From the early versions such as Server 2008 or Server 2012 to modern editions like Server 2019 and Microsoft Server 2025, Windows Server has significantly evolved to meet the new needs of professionals regarding performance, security, and flexibility.
Today, Windows Server constitutes a comprehensive platform for managing a modern IT environment, whether in a datacentre, a private cloud, or a hybrid infrastructure.
What is a computer server?
A computer server is a system designed to provide services, data, or resources to other devices connected to a network. It can, for example, host a website, share files, manage applications, or centralise user access.
Unlike a personal computer, a server is suited for intensive use and often operates continuously. It can use different operating systems, such as Windows Server, a Microsoft solution designed to manage a modern IT environment, handle Active Directory, configure network services, and protect data.
Depending on the needs, an organisation can choose a dedicated server, a cloud infrastructure, a Standard or Datacentre edition, or an even more powerful configuration to support a large application load. A computer server thus improves the performance, security, and availability of applications while facilitating resource management within an organisation.
Can I migrate existing applications to a Windows dedicated server with OVHcloud?
Yes. OVHcloud's dedicated Windows servers allow for the migration of existing applications from an old server, a cloud environment, or another Microsoft infrastructure to a more efficient and secure solution. They support business applications, websites, SQL Server databases, Active Directory, network services, and hybrid environments.
Migration may include data transfer, application installation, Windows Server configuration, service updates, access security, and performance optimisation. Before migrating, it is recommended to check the compatibility of applications with the chosen version of Windows Server, to test the configuration, and to plan a backup strategy.
What are the availability and reliability of OVHcloud for dedicated Windows servers?
OVHcloud offers dedicated Windows servers designed to ensure the continuity of business applications, the stability of network services, and the protection of critical data. Depending on the chosen range, servers can benefit from high SLAs, a global infrastructure spread across multiple datacentres, integrated anti-DDoS protection, and a high availability network.
To enhance reliability, OVHcloud also offers options such as backups, the private vRack network, clustering, and architectures suited for cloud, hybrid, or datacentre environments. These solutions help to limit the impact of a hardware or network failure and ensure better availability of critical applications.