Hi,

Im interested in setting up a dba training environment at home. I have a few years developing in SSRS and Im interested in becoming a DBA. I have installed sql server 2008 r2 at home in the past, but now I want to install it on windows server to get more familiar with admin stuff. I don't have any experience with Windows Server. Can anyone give me some advice on how I should install windows server knowing that my intentions are to install sql server on it next?

I have access to windows server 2008 r2, or windows server 2012 (and will be installing sql server 2008 r2)

Thanks in advance for any help

The industry seems to think there is some great difference between a Server OS compared to a desktop one. There really isn't. It just comes with extra programs and boots to the equivalent of Computer Management by default.

You'll probably want to add the File and Storage Services role at least... maybe Web Server or Application Server but I guess it depends on what you'll be doing with the thing.