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I have a brand-new Windows-based server that needs to be fully configured and made production-ready. The core objective is twofold: establish a stable, secure server environment and implement a reliable email solution on top of it. Here is what I expect: • Clean installation and hardening of Windows Server (latest supported edition). • DNS, firewall and remote access settings tuned for security and performance. • Email service installed and configured—please recommend the best route (Exchange on-prem, Microsoft 365 hybrid, or a lean IMAP/POP setup) and explain licensing or MX record changes I should plan for. • All necessary roles and features enabled so the machine is ready to add web, database or file services later without rework. • Clear, step-by-step hand-over notes and a short call to walk me through ongoing maintenance tasks. Administrative access to the blank server and domain registrar dashboard will be provided immediately. I prefer someone experienced with Windows Server Manager, PowerShell and mainstream email platforms who can deliver a secure, documented configuration within a few days.
Project ID: 40748020
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Hi there As an experienced IT professional and web developer, I am well-versed in all aspects of your project. With comprehensive knowledge in IMAP and Microsoft 365, I can provide effective solutions for your email needs. In addition, my strong command over Windows Server Manager and PowerShell ensures a smooth, secure, and efficient configuration. Over the years, my team and I have worked on numerous projects that involved setting up servers from scratch, securing them effectively, and providing reliable email services. Our approach is always solution-oriented and we are adept at finding the most suitable and cost-effective route for each client. In your case, we will carefully evaluate the pros and cons of Exchange on-prem, Microsoft 365 hybrid, or a lean IMAP/POP setup, explaining licensing or MX record changes upfront to ensure a well-informed decision. With us handling your project, you can rest assured that you'll not only get a fully-configured Windows Server but also detailed handover notes and guidance on maintenance tasks. Moreover, our penchant for delivering quality work within tight deadlines perfectly aligns with your need for swift completion. Choosing us means choosing a reliable partner that will put your business's security and functionality as their top priority Regards Shibu
£200 GBP in 5 days
0.0
0.0
25 freelancers are bidding on average £135 GBP for this job

Setting up a fresh Windows Server requires solid baseline hardening and picking the right email architecture early so your domain reputation and deliverability stay clean from day one. ✅ Baseline hardening: Remote Desktop security (NLA, brute-force lockout policies, restricted listening), Windows Advanced Firewall rules, and core role provisioning ready for future web/database services. ✅ Email architecture deployment: Setup of Microsoft 365 routing or an on-premise lightweight engine (MailEnable/hMailServer), complete with DNS records (MX, SPF, DKIM, DMARC) to guarantee inbox delivery. ✅ Risk control: Full bare-metal backup baseline and disaster recovery snapshot created before handover so you can roll back instantly if needed. ✅ Documentation & Walkthrough: Step-by-step administrative runbook and a handover call covering routine patching, logs, and maintenance. ✅ 10+ years production experience | 400+ completed projects | 320+ five-star reviews ✅ Microsoft® Certified: MCSA | MCSE | MCT & cPanel Certified (CWSA-2) How many active mailboxes are you planning to host, and does your hosting provider assign a dedicated static IP with configurable reverse DNS (PTR)? I can deliver this in 1 day for 135 GBP and can jump on it right now.
£135 GBP in 1 day
6.9
6.9

Hi there, I noticed your project requires a clean installation and hardening of a Windows Server, along with a stable email solution. I can assist with setting up a secure server environment that meets your needs, including configuring DNS and firewall settings for optimal performance and security. For your email solution, I recommend we evaluate either Microsoft Exchange or a lean IMAP setup depending on your scale and future requirements, ensuring we implement the correct licensing and necessary MX record changes. After setting everything up, I will provide thorough documentation and a quick call to walk you through maintenance tasks. Regards, Ali
£20 GBP in 1 day
3.6
3.6

Warm greetings! I specialize in securing and preparing production-ready Windows Server environments, with 9+ years of experience and an agency team of 62 professionals. I can configure your new server, harden the infrastructure, and implement the right email architecture without creating unnecessary rework later. Here's how I can help: * Cleanly install, harden, and optimize the latest supported Windows Server edition * Configure DNS, firewall rules, RDP/remote access, security policies, updates, and backups * Evaluate Exchange on-prem, Microsoft 365 hybrid, and lean IMAP/POP options based on your requirements * Configure MX, SPF, DKIM, DMARC, mail flow, users, and required roles/features * Use PowerShell and Windows Server Manager for a documented, repeatable configuration * Deliver step-by-step handover documentation plus a maintenance walkthrough call Before implementation, I’ll assess your domain, mailbox count, licensing constraints, and expected future services so the email setup fits your environment. How many mailboxes do you need, and are you committed to hosting email on this server or open to Microsoft 365?
£135 GBP in 7 days
3.3
3.3

With 17+ years of enterprise IT experience and certifications including MCITP, MS-102, and CCNA, I specialize in deploying hardened Windows Server environments and secure email infrastructures designed for maximum uptime and security. Here is my execution plan to deliver a secure, high-performance deployment: * Operating System Provisioning: Clean installation of the latest Windows Server (2022/2025), applying strict CIS hardening benchmarks, disabling unnecessary roles/services, and optimizing system performance. * Network & Firewall Security: Configure advanced Windows Defender Firewall rules to restrict inbound/outbound traffic, enforce Least Privilege access, and secure remote entry via IP-restricted VPN or RDS. * DNS & Email Deliverability: Set up external and internal DNS routing, and implement robust email authentication protocols (SPF, DKIM, DMARC) to ensure 100% deliverability and protection against spoofing. * Access Control & Monitoring: Enable active audit logging, configure automated security patching policies, and perform post-config vulnerability scans to validate the hardened perimeter. To ensure the network architecture aligns perfectly with your goals: Will the email services be hosted directly on this local Windows Server (e.g., via IIS SMTP or Exchange), or are we configuring this server to integrate and relay through an external provider like Microsoft 365?
£135 GBP in 7 days
3.5
3.5

your blank windows server needs locking down and a reliable email setup on top, and i can get both production-ready for you, including picking the right email route i can do this for you, from the hardening and firewall through to the mx record changes at your registrar i'll stay on it until the server is stable, the mail flows properly and you're happy with the handover notes roughly how many people will need mailboxes on this server? send over the access when you're ready and we can sort the details here Sela
£100 GBP in 7 days
0.5
0.5

Hi, I'll start with hardening, roles, and your email route. Delivering a fully configured, production-ready Windows Server with DNS, firewall, remote access, a reliable email solution, and documented hand-over notes is key. Previously I've configured Windows Server with DNS, firewall, PowerShell, and email routes including Microsoft Exchange, Microsoft 365, and IMAP/POP, where MX records and licensing were the fun part, and where the only thing more mysterious than DNS was the licensing. If awarded, I'm determined to win this and confident I can deliver high-quality results within the deadline, best regards.
£99 GBP in 3 days
0.0
0.0

Hi, I understand you need a clean and secure Windows Server setup that is ready for production and future web, database, or file services. I will install and harden the server, configure DNS, firewall rules, secure remote access, and review the best email option based on your users, licensing, and domain needs. I can assess Microsoft Exchange, Microsoft 365 hybrid, or a simpler mail setup, then handle the required MX and related DNS records. Using Windows Server Manager and PowerShell, I will keep the configuration organised and document the main settings, maintenance steps, and recovery points. I will also provide a short handover call so you can manage the server with confidence. How many mailboxes and domains do you need, and do you already have Microsoft 365 licenses or an existing email service to migrate?
£185 GBP in 4 days
0.0
0.0

As a Software Engineer with extensive experience in Full Stack Development, I am highly competent in handling the complex task of configuring a Windows-based server and implementing an efficient email solution. My adeptness with Windows Server Manager, PowerShell, and proficiency in maintaining high security and performance levels make me an ideal candidate for your project. In addition to my technical skills, I offer you my ability to think creatively and find the most effective solutions tailored to your specific needs. Your requirements for a stable server environment, secure access, and optimal email setup can be achieved with my strategic approach. I will meticulously install and harden the latest Windows Server version while making sure all necessary roles and features are enabled for any future services you may require Furthermore, my knack for producing clear, step-by-step hand-over notes will ensure you have convenient reference material post-configuration. I go beyond 'just completing projects’; I build long-term solutions designed to help your business thrive. With me on board, you’re not just getting a technician; you’re getting a dedicated collaborator ready to turn your ideas into reality. Let's discuss how we can enhance your business operations together!
£170 GBP in 2 days
0.0
0.0

Hello, As an experienced full-stack AI engineer, I can bring unparalleled value to your Windows Server configuration project. My deep understanding of cloud infrastructure and automation platforms aligns perfectly with your project requirements. In terms of DNS, firewall, and remote access settings, which are crucial for establishing a stable, secure server environment, I have proven expertise with mainstream technologies like PowerShell and Windows Server Manager. Moreover, my proficiency in AI SaaS development translates into an ability to make the machines not only secure but also smart. As we're considering email solutions, I can evaluate and recommend the best route for you, be it leveraging Exchange on-premises, Microsoft 365 hybrid or a leaner IMAP/POP setup, along with advising on licensing or MX record adjustments. Lastly, I prioritize delivering valuable documentation that significantly eases ongoing maintenance tasks. Equipped with a business-focused mindset that considers long-term scalability, hiring me for this project will ensure you receive precisely what you need: dependable and well-documented configurations in a prompt yet detail-oriented manner. Let's chat about implementing AI-powered optimizations to enhance your experience even further! Thanks!
£100 GBP in 3 days
0.0
0.0

Hello, I hope your week is going well. I checked your project and the main points are a clean Windows Server install, security hardening, and a working email setup with clear handover notes. In the past I built similar environments and I have full experience with Windows Server Manager, PowerShell, DNS and firewall hardening, plus Exchange, Microsoft 365 hybrid and lean IMAP/POP mail configurations. For the build I'd start with a clean Windows Server install, then lock it down with a role-based setup and PowerShell scripts for repeatable config. DNS and firewall rules get tuned alongside remote access, so RDP and mail ports stay open only where they should be. On email, I'd weigh Exchange on-prem against a Microsoft 365 hybrid or a lighter IMAP/POP route based on your mailbox count and budget, and flag the MX and licensing steps you'd need to plan for. Could we hop on a short call to confirm your user count and whether you want cloud mail or on-prem? That decides the email route before I touch DNS. Best regards.
£135 GBP in 3 days
0.0
0.0

Hello, I can help configure and harden your Windows Server and make it production-ready. I have strong experience with Windows Server, PowerShell, DNS, firewall/security configuration, remote access, and Microsoft 365/email environments. I can securely configure the server, recommend the most suitable email setup based on your requirements, handle DNS/MX records, and provide clear handover documentation with a short walkthrough. I’ll make sure the setup is secure, reliable, and ready for future web, database, or file services. Best regards
£135 GBP in 3 days
0.0
0.0

Hazel Grove, United Kingdom
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Member since Sep 23, 2014
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