Debating Windows 2016 virtual machine on Qnap Ts253a

[90Ninety]

Currently I have installed a QNAP ts-253a for a client on a small business network ( 20-30 users) who are on a peer-to-peer network (work-group), which is being used as a file server. Also QVPN has been deployed ( openVPN) and have been fiddling with some virtual machines which work surprisingly well .

The client now requires a Windows server , as there are numerous concerns around security . Now I am debating the idea of running Server 2016 on a virtual machine. I am thinking of running Windows server 2016 on the Qnap Virtualization station versus the idea of having a separate spare 'bare metal' server

Currently the client requirements are quite low ; there just needs to be an AD DS , DC and DHCP , then around four group policies with 30 users . Further on I am thinking if the server requirements grow , I can export the appliance and migrate it to bear metal . Future requirements maybe needed such as file versioning and I am not quite sure the QNAP has the grunt to Host these current or future requirements . I like the idea running server as a virtual machine as it would be easier (portable , backed up, Qnap redundancy ) , more cost effective and use less space , noise and power .

I just wondered if any of you had experience running Windows server on the QNAP and could comment on its performance , perhaps it is a stupid idea ? Please let me know your reasons why I should or should not host the server as a virtual machine . I am really impressed how responsive the virutal machines have run thus far , so my instinct here is to give it a try at least .

[dolbyman]

I would try win server core (no gui)...a little harder to setup (unless you do everything via powershell anyways) but should be less demanding for that little celeron in the qnap

[90Ninety]

I would try win server core (no gui)...a little harder to setup (unless you do everything via powershell anyways) but should be less demanding for that little celeron in the qnap

I can understand that from someone well versed with commands, though I have heard/read from people running server well on low end devices for basic tasks , even with GUI .

As long as there is not a glaring big red flag not to , I am going to give regular server a whirl .

[Trexx]

My gut feel is that you are going to be under powered for an significant VM usage. One option would be to upgrade to a beefier QNAP such as the x82 or the new Ryzen x77's.

You could migrate your existing drives to the new unit, or use the existing TS-253a for backup/etc.