Installation on Windows

FileMaker Server is a reliable and powerful platform for managing and hosting FileMaker databases in networks. This guide takes you step-by-step through the installation process on a Windows server.  Below you will find the minimum requirements for FileMaker Server 2020. You can find all minimum requirements on our FileMaker info page.

Prerequisites

Before you begin installing FileMaker Server on a Windows server, make sure that your system meets the following requirements:

• Operating systemWindows Server 2019, Windows Server 2016 or Windows Server 2012 R2. Alternatively, installation is also possible on Windows 10 Pro or Enterprise.
• Hardware:
  • ProcessorAt least a 4-core processor (Intel Xeon recommended).
  • Working memoryAt least 8 GB RAM, 16 GB or more is recommended.
  • Hard disk storageAt least 80 GB of free disk space, 500 GB is recommended, depending on the size of the databases to be managed.
• NetworkStable Internet connection for access and licensing.
• Microsoft .NET FrameworkVersion 4.8 or higher (automatically installed during installation if not present).
• Administrator rightsAdministrator rights on the server are required for the installation.

1. preparation

1. Download the installation files:
   • Download the installation files for FileMaker Server from the official FileMaker website. You will need your FileMaker license information.
2. Perform Windows updates:
   • Make sure that your Windows server is fully updated to avoid compatibility problems.
3. Configure firewall and ports:
   • Open the required ports in the Windows firewall, in particular:
     • Port 80 (HTTP) and Port 443 (HTTPS) for WebDirect.
     • Port 5003 for FileMaker Pro clients.
     • Port 16000 for the Admin Console.
   • This configuration is important to ensure smooth access to the server.
4. Security software:
   • Temporarily disable antivirus software or add exceptions to avoid possible conflicts during installation.

2. installation of FileMaker Server

1. Execute installation file:
   • Double-click on the downloaded FileMakerServer_x64.exe-file to start the installation wizard.
2. Welcome and introduction:
   • In the welcome screen of the installation wizard, click on Next.
3. License agreement:
   • Read the license agreement carefully. To continue, you must accept the conditions and click on Next click.
4. Select installation path:
   • Select the directory in which FileMaker Server is to be installed. By default, the program is installed in the C:\Program Files\FileMaker\FileMaker Server-directory. You can change this path if necessary.
5. Customized installation:
   • Select whether you want to perform a standard installation or a customized installation. With a custom installation, you can select specific components to be installed.
6. Create administrative users:
   • Enter a user name and secure password for administrator access to the FileMaker Server Admin Console. These credentials are required to manage the server settings later.
7. Set database directory:
   • Specify the storage location for the databases. It is advisable to store them on a dedicated hard disk or partition to optimize performance.
8. SSL configuration (optional):
   • You can configure an SSL certificate during the installation or skip this step and install a certificate later.
9. Complete the installation:
   • Click on Installto start the installation process. This may take a few minutes.
10. Finish installation:
    • Once the installation is complete, you can close the wizard. The FileMaker Server service will start automatically.

3. configuration of FileMaker Server

1. Access to the Admin Console:
   • Open a web browser and enter https://:16000 to access the FileMaker Server Admin Console. Log in with the administrator account you created earlier.
2. Enter license key:
   • After logging in for the first time, you must enter your license key to activate the server.
3. Manage SSL certificates:
   • If you did not set up an SSL certificate during the installation, you can now do so in the Admin Console. It is strongly recommended to use a trusted certificate to ensure security.
4. Upload databases:
   • Upload your FileMaker databases by clicking in the Admin Console on Add database and select the desired files.
5. Set up automatic backups:
   • Set up the Schedules in the Admin Console to back up your databases regularly.

4. after installation: important settings and tips

1. Server monitoring:
   • Regularly monitor the performance and security of your server via the Admin Console. Use logging and monitoring functions to detect potential problems at an early stage.
2. Manage user access:
   • Use the user roles and privileges in FileMaker Server to control access to your databases according to your organization's needs.
3. Regular updates:
   • Keep your FileMaker Server up to date by installing updates regularly. These updates contain important security and performance improvements.
4. Check firewall and security settings:
   • Ensure that the firewall and security settings are configured correctly to prevent unauthorized access to the server.
5. Optimize database performance:
   • Check the server performance regularly and optimize your databases and server settings to ensure the best possible performance.

Summary

Installing FileMaker Server on Microsoft Windows is a relatively simple process, but it requires careful preparation and configuration to create a stable and secure server environment. By following the steps and tips above, you can ensure that your FileMaker Server works efficiently and that your data is protected in the best possible way.