# Installation & Setup | ManageEngine Endpoint Central

**Last Updated On**: 21 May 2026  
**8 minutes read**

## Prerequisites

Before installing the Central Server, ensure that your system meets the [minimum requirements](https://www.manageengine.com/products/desktop-central/help/server/system-requirements.html).

## Download the EXE and Verify Its Integrity

### Steps to download the EXE:

1. Navigate to the official [product download page](https://www.manageengine.com/products/desktop-central/free-trial.html).
2. Click on the **Download** link for the EXE version of the product.
3. Save the EXE file to a location on your local machine.

### Steps to verify the integrity of the downloaded file:

1. On the same download page, locate the **SHA256 checksum** provided next to the EXE file link.
2. Copy the displayed SHA256 value (a long alphanumeric string).
3. Open a Command Prompt window at the location of the downloaded EXE file.
4. Run the following command:

```
certutil -hashfile downloadedEXEfilename.exe SHA256
```

5. Compare the generated checksum with the official checksum value.
6. If they match, the file integrity is successfully verified.

## Server Installation in Physical Machines

### Steps to Install the Central Server:

1. Navigate to the downloaded EXE file.
2. Double-click the EXE to initiate installation (after confirming prerequisites).
3. The InstallShield Wizard will open with a welcome screen. Click **Next**.
4. Read and accept the End-User License Agreement (EULA). Click **I Agree**, then **Next**.
5. Choose your preferred installation type:
   1. **Default Installation** (Recommended): Uses default settings.
   2. **Custom Installation**: Allows you to change installation settings.
6. Choose the installation directory (a default path will be suggested, or you can browse for a custom path). Click **Next**.
7. Set the Web Server Port. The default port `8383` will be shown. Change it only if needed. Click **Next**.
8. Click **Install** to begin the installation process.
9. Once completed, click **Finish** to exit the wizard.
10. The Central Server is now successfully installed.
11. The web service will start automatically within a few seconds after installation.