can I install Windows Server 2012 on my PC?

I have an HP In One desktop running Windows 8.1

Can I purchase Windows 2012 and install it on this pc without compromising my data?

I'm seeing some affordable versions of Windows 2012 on Ebay that I assume are cd based?

[h=3]Microsoft Windows Server Standard 2012 R2 x64 bit Full Version[/h]

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adam9870

You can do dual-boot.
Why do you want to buy and install windows server on your desktop?

NetworkingStudent

Simple answer no.

It would overwrite the data.

You could make the machine dual boot, and boot to Windows 8.1 or Windows server 2012 R2, but that is not very practical.

You should set up Windows Server 2012 R2 in a virtualized environment.

See this video for more info:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QVpNa3rEnpk

Does your machine have a x64 processor?

Windows server requires a x64 bit processor.

You shouldn't buy Windows Server, because you can free trials of the software from Microsoft.
https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/evalcenter/evaluate-windows-server-honolulu

JoshGarmon47

thank you

i was looking for a way that would be cheaper than getting more hardware

according to my System specs, i actually do have an x64 processor

curious about learning Active Directory

but now it seems 2016 has replaced 2012, which is more practical to learn now?

TechGuru80

You can download a trial version from Microsoft for free if all’s you want to do is learn.

Mike7

You can download eval version from https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/evalcenter/evaluate-windows-server-2012-r2

As for installing, you can run it in as a VM using VirtualBox or VMWare Player.

Regardless, back up your data.