Week 5 Posting - CLI VS GUI Windows OS Installation

 CLI VS GUI Windows OS Installation

    Windows Server operating systems come with two common options to select from. These are the command line and the graphical user interface installation options. In the installation screen, these would be listed as Server Core for the CLI, and Desktop Experience for GUI. But what are the benefits to these?

    Desktop Experience installations are similar to a multi-tool. The experienced administrator has the ability to build an easy-to-use application server, that offers a user-friendly GUI for the operator. This allows for a much broader scope of support in most environments. Likewise, an entry level admin would be able to visualize the processes being implemented on the server offering a much more understandable approach to the OS.

    Server Core is meant to be installed from the command line. This allows the trained administrator to design a very secure, yet simple design that performs functions with ease. A CLI installation is naturally smaller in size due to the GUI portions not installed but comes with the cost of some handy features. Newer professionals might find themselves surfing the internet or paperwork to understand the purpose of the server in the event of a failure. This type of installation should have a well-documented description of what role it serves.

    Depending on the environment and requirements, both are great solutions. The Core OS has a greatly reduced attack surface in comparison with the Desktop Experience but might present a knowledge gap across the IT teams. It is smaller in size, and simple by design, but reduces the capabilities in comparison to a GUI setup. 

So, which one is better? Both.

    These solutions can be implemented together inside a domain to reduce attack surfaces where necessary, such as domain controllers. GUI installations can support application servers and member servers where administrators will likely spend good amounts of time operating. This allows the respective teams to work together, without sacrificing in one direction or the other.