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Offload AD services to another server

I have about 15 servers in my environment. My exchange 2003 server also runs DNS and takes forever to reboot. I have another server that runs: DHCP, Printing, DNS, Master Roles, GC. I've been told by several consultants that I should offload DNS from the email server. I'm adding a server with a primary role of DNS. What other services should I remove from Exchange.

Lee W, MVP

What other services are on the Exchange Server? If Exchange is on a domain Controller itself, then that was a mistake - BUT DO NOT CHANGE IT NOW. Changing the DC Status of an Exchange server can cripple Exchange.

And frankly... I don't see why DNS on the exchange server would be a problem - it's a lightweight service... The long boots SOUND like it is a DC... The only way to remove the DC functionality is to install Exchange on another server, migrate it completely off the existing server, then demote the existing server and migrate it back.

stl-it

ASKER

Yes, Exchange was installed on this server when it was one of the first servers before I was here and it is a DC.

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Lee W, MVP

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stl-it

ASKER

I am planning on replacing the exchange server this year so I will be sure the new one isn't a DC.

Lee W, MVP

References:
http://www.petri.co.il/problems_with_exchange_2003_installed_on_domain_controllers.htm
http://www.petri.co.il/slow_shutdown_of_exchange_2003_server_installed_on_dc.htm

Lee W, MVP

Any chance for that "A" grade now?