What is the supported network configuration?

Applies To: Windows Storage Server 2008 R2 Essentials

The supported network configuration for Windows Storage Server 2008 R2 Essentials is:

• A computer that is running Windows Storage Server 2008 R2 Essentials and that is connected to the network via a router or firewall. For information, see How do I connect my server to my network?

• Client computers that are running a supported operating system. For more information, see Supported operating systems for client computers and Prerequisites for connecting a computer to the network.

Network adapter teaming

The Windows Storage Server 2008 R2 Essentials networking wizards do not support network adapter teaming

Some hardware manufacturers provide network adapters and drivers that feature fault tolerance technology. You can use fault tolerance technology to group network adapter ports for a connection to a single physical segment. This is known as “network adapter teaming.” If connectivity through one port does not work, another port is automatically activated to handle the connection. This process is transparent to the operating system and to other devices on the network.

The Windows Storage Server 2008 R2 Essentials auto-discovery feature and networking wizards such as the Remote Web Access wizard do not support network adapter teaming because it is a scenario that is not typically used in a small business environment.

If you choose to configure network adapter teaming manually, you should not do so until after you install the server and complete all of the server configuration tasks.

In addition, you should not use the Windows Storage Server 2008 R2 Essentials networking wizards after you configure adapter teaming because doing this will have an unknown effect on the team.

To remove a network team

1. Uninstall the network teaming software, and then restart the server when you are prompted.

2. Use Device Manager to uninstall the virtual network adapter, and then restart the server when you are prompted.