Using a server as a render node for V-Ray for Maya

V-Ray V-Ray Common Render Theory
1

Hello. I am interested in finding out if you can use a server running Windows Server 2008 or 2012, as a render node to run V-ray for Maya 2017 on it. Conversely, could you just install Windows 7 or 10 on something like a Poweredge C6220 II and run it like a Windows Client to run Vray for Maya? Thanks!

2

I bought a server machine a while ago, installed win7 and vray ran fine, no reason not to its just a computer…it was bloody noisy though :slight_smile:

3

Hi francomanko. Thanks for your reply.

Yes, this what I have heard from various forums, that you can run Windows 7 or 10 on server instead of Windows Server 2012 or 2016. Officially the manufacturers seem to advise against it due to possible driver issues. My intent is to run Windows 10 or 7, but I just wanted something to fall back on in case it didn’t work. I would be running it in another room to deal with the fan noise factor. In any case, how did you know it would work for you? Did you just ask around? Was there documentation somewhere? Thanks

4

You can run it on Windows server 64 bit, 2008 R2 and later. The server versions are based on the desktop ones and although you don’t need server roles, they do not interfere with V-Ray.

5

Thanks. I will go with Windows Server 2012 R2. This way I won’t run into any driver issues.