Why would anyone want to use Windows 2008 R2 Server as a workstation? The main arguments in <i>my</i> case are the superior <b>firewall</b> and <b>user account control</b>. Now, if you want to do the same, you can go to <a href="http://win2008r2workstation.com/" target="_blank">win2008r2workstation.com</a> and get a really detailed howto with screenshots - or you can read this post for a really short checklist, something I prefer to have for future installs of the same variety. <span id="more-495"></span> The following steps are best performed in the order presented here.
### Add the following Windows Features:
* Desktop Experience
* Windows Biometric Framework
* .NET Framework 3.5.1 Features
* Wireless LAN Service
* Internet Printing Client ((You might have to restart the <b>Print Spooler</b> service after installing this feature.))
### Modify the Local Security Policy:
* Under <b>Security Settings</b>:
* Under <b>Account Policies</b>, <b>Password Policy</b>, disable the item <b>Passwords must meet complexity requirements</b>.
* Under <b>Local Policies</b>, <b>Security Options</b>, enable the following:
* Interactive logon: Do not require CTRL+ALT+DEL
* Shutdown: Allow system to be shut down without having to log on
* Under <b>Local Policies</b>, <b>User Rights Assignment</b>:
* Add the <b>Users</b> group to <b>Shut down the system</b>
### With the gpedit.msc snap-in:
* Under <b>Local computer Policy</b>,
* Under <b>Administrative Templates</b>,
* Under <b>System</b>
* Disable <b>Display Shutdown Event Tracker</b>
### Set the following services to autostart:
* Windows Audio
* Wireless LAN
* Themes
### In the Control Panel:
* Under <b>System</b>:
* Click your way through
* Advanced System Settings
* Advanced
* Performance (Settings)
* Advanced
* Processor scheduling.
* Select <b>Adjust for best performance of Programs</b>.
* Under <b>Folder Options</b>,
* Under <b>View</b>, disable <b>Always show icons, never thumbnails</b>.
* Under <b>Search</b>, include everything (also compressed folders).
### In the Server Manager:
* Remove all Roles except for the File Server Role.
* Install the <b>File Server</b> role and the following Role Services:
* Windows Search Service
* Services for Network File System