How do I add the Windows GUI to Windows 2016 Server Core?

Solution 1:

It's no longer possible to switch from Server Core to the full GUI or vice versa in Server 2016 - either through Server Manager, PowerShell, or DISM. You must make the choice initially at install time. From TechNet:

Unlike some previous releases of Windows Server, you cannot convert between Server Core and Server with Desktop Experience after installation. For example, if you install Server Core and later decide to user Server with Desktop Experience, you should do a fresh installation (and vice versa).

A good community article on the topic: https://superwidgets.wordpress.com/2016/10/29/windows-server-2016-gui-options/

The capability to convert from one to the other via Server Manager and the Install/Remove-WindowsFeature cmdlets existed in Server 2012 and Server 2012 R2.