How To Install Exchange Server

Level of difficulty: Intermediate

Exchange Server is a productivity program that was developed and introduced by Microsoft Corporation. This software was released to the computer market on June 11, 1996 as a product upgrade to the then Microsoft Mail which was used for communication activities of computer systems running under the Microsoft Windows Operating System platform. The Microsoft Exchange Server is basically structured as a client and server electronic mailing system using one database storage that is capable of supporting the directory services feature of the Windows system. This messaging product is deployed in a wide variety of organizations to implement various operations that include calendaring, maintenance of tasks and contacts, electronic mailing, as well as Web- and mobile-based information access processes.

Materials Needed:
- Computer
- Internet connection
- Optical drive
- Exchange Server installer
- Web browser
Step 1
Prior to initiating the installation of the Exchange Server, the most critical step is to make sure that the system which will host the application meets or exceeds the minimum requirements. This can be seen in the package of the software or by visiting the website of Microsoft Corporation.
Step 2
Once it is established that the system can adequately support the execution of the Exchange Server, log into the appropriate server where the software will be installed.
Step 3
Open the optical drive and insert the installation media. This will automatically launch the program’s setup wizard. In case the setup does not run, open the Explorer program and navigate to the correct drive. Double click the Setup.exe file to begin the installation process.
Step 4
Before the actual installation of the Exchange Server begins, the wizard will verify if the Microsoft Windows PowerShell, MMC (Microsoft Management Console), and .NET Framework 2.0 programs are present in the machine. If they exist, the wizard will proceed to the next step, otherwise, visit the Microsoft site to download and install these necessary components.
Step 5
Click on the Install Microsoft Exchange option on the onscreen prompt. The Introduction Window will be displayed to the user. Simply click on the Next button to begin the next phase of installation.
Step 6
You need to click on the I accept option to activate the Next button. Once the Next button is activated click on it to bring up the next screen.
Step 7
The user is given the choice whether to activate or not the Error Reporting option. For the purpose of debugging, it is better to choose the Yes option. Click on the Next button.
Step 8
For first timers, it is better to accept the Typical Exchange Server Installation option. This will also provide the user with the default location where the software will be placed. Select the Next button after completing this stage.
Step 9
The following screen allows for the setting of specific client machines. If one of the client machines is running Outlook 2003 or if unsure, simply choose the Yes option. Click the Next button again.
Step 10
The Readiness Checks will be executed by the program. Wait for this process to complete before clicking on the Install option. This will begin the installation proper.
Step 11
The installation process will finish in about 30 minutes after which the Finish button will be displayed when successfully completed. Click on it to end the installation.
Step 12
After the completion of the process, return to the main screen and select the Critical Updates for Microsoft Exchange option. The application will connect to the update website.
Step 13
Select the Review and installation updates link option. After that, click the Install Updates link. This will ensure that the Exchange Server installation is updated.
Step 14
Once all updates have been installed, restart the program to complete the Exchange Server 2007 installation.