How to install Internet Information Services (IIS) on Windows

IIS is a web server platform from Microsoft that hosts web applications and services on Windows. It supports multiple protocols, including HTTP, HTTPS, and FTP, making it suitable for static websites, ASP.NET applications, or other server-based solutions. The platform is included in Windows but requires enabling to function.

The modular design of IIS lets administrators choose the features they need, such as application pools, request filtering, and security features. This customization promotes tighter control of system resources and application performance. Seamless integration with other Microsoft technologies, including the .NET framework, streamlines application hosting.

Once installed, IIS can be managed through the IIS Manager, which provides configuration for server bindings, authentication methods, and performance optimization. Administrators can also use PowerShell or command-line tools to automate deployments or manage large-scale installations.

1. Open the Control Panel.

   Use the search bar in the taskbar to quickly locate the Control Panel.

2. Navigate to Programs and select Turn Windows Features On or Off.
3. Find and select Internet Information Services (IIS) from the list.
4. Expand IIS to view its components.
5. Select the required features, including web server, security, or development options.
6. Click OK to apply the changes.
7. Wait for Windows to complete the installation process.

   Processing... 
   
   [========================] 100%
   IIS has been successfully installed.

   This may take a few minutes, depending on your system's performance.

8. Open a web browser and enter http://localhost to confirm IIS is running.

   If the installation was successful, the IIS Welcome Page will appear in the browser.

9. Open IIS Manager from the Start Menu to begin configuring your web server.

   You can manage multiple websites, configure application pools, and set up various authentication methods from the IIS Manager.