How to Restore Server Manager in Windows Server 2019 Essentials

Server Manager is a crucial tool for managing and configuring Windows Server 2019 Essentials. However, there may be instances where Server Manager disappears or becomes inaccessible. In such cases, it’s essential to know how to restore Server Manager to ensure smooth server management. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of restoring Server Manager in Windows Server 2019 Essentials.

Reinstalling Server Manager

If Server Manager is missing from your Windows Server 2019 Essentials system, you can try reinstalling it. Here’s how:

Open File Explorer and navigate to c:\Windows\WinSxS\msil_microsoft-windows-servermanager-shell_31bf3856ad364e35_10.0.13393.2156_none_1e17b8faa40737.
Copy the ServerManager.exe application.
Open another File Explorer window and navigate to C:\Windows\System32.
Paste the ServerManager.exe file into the System32 folder.

If you can’t find `ServerManager.exe` in the specified location, search for it in `C:\Windows\WinSxS` and copy it to `C:\Windows\System32`. Make sure there is a `ServerManagerInternal` folder and `ServerManagerLauncher.exe` in `C:\Windows\System32` as well.

Enabling Server Manager Feature

Another method to restore Server Manager is by enabling the Server Manager feature using the Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) tool. Follow these steps:

Open an elevated Command Prompt or PowerShell window.
Run the following command:
dism /online /enable-feature /all /featurename:server-gui-mgmt

Wait for the process to complete.

This command will enable the Server Manager feature, which should restore the functionality of Server Manager in your Windows Server 2019 Essentials system.

Restoring Files and Folders

If you have a backup of your server, you can restore the Server Manager files and folders using the Windows Server Essentials Dashboard. Here’s how:

Open the Windows Server Essentials Dashboard.
Click on the “Devices” tab.
Click on the name of the server.
In the Tasks pane, click “Restore files or folders” for the server.
The Restore Files and Folders Wizard will open. Follow the instructions in the wizard to restore the files or folders related to Server Manager.

By following these methods, you should be able to restore Server Manager in your Windows Server 2019 Essentials system. If you encounter any issues or need further assistance, it’s recommended to consult with Microsoft Support or a qualified IT professional.