Why would anyone want to use Windows 2008 R2 Server as a workstation? The main arguments in my case are the superior firewall and user account control. Now, if you want to do the same, you can go to win2008r2workstation.com 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. 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 Print Spooler service after installing this feature.))
### Modify the Local Security Policy:
* Under Security Settings:
* Under Account Policies, Password Policy, disable the item Passwords must meet complexity requirements.
* Under Local Policies, Security Options, enable the following:
* Interactive logon: Do not require CTRL+ALT+DEL
* Shutdown: Allow system to be shut down without having to log on
* Under Local Policies, User Rights Assignment:
* Add the Users group to Shut down the system
### With the gpedit.msc snap-in:
* Under Local computer Policy,
* Under Administrative Templates,
* Under System
* Disable Display Shutdown Event Tracker
### Set the following services to autostart:
* Windows Audio
* Wireless LAN
* Themes
### In the Control Panel:
* Under System:
* Click your way through
* Advanced System Settings
* Advanced
* Performance (Settings)
* Advanced
* Processor scheduling.
* Select Adjust for best performance of Programs.
* Under Folder Options,
* Under View, disable Always show icons, never thumbnails.
* Under Search, include everything (also compressed folders).
### In the Server Manager:
* Remove all Roles except for the File Server Role.
* Install the File Server role and the following Role Services:
* Windows Search Service
* Services for Network File System