FreshmanGuru
asked on
Adding Server to SBS2003 Domain
I have 35 users and installing SBS 2003 server. I am having to use an old IBM Server 4GB RAM, 2.4Ghz Intel and 2-250GB Drives (will use software RAID) for the SBS machine.....There is already a Windows 2003 Server on the network that is not a DC. SBS will be running Exchange, but not ISA. Management wants to make good use of the existing server....and I would like to use it to assist in some of the tasks of SBS if possible... How do I add it to my SBS Domain? and can you think of anythjing it could be used for to help take the load off SBS...like User Logons, File Storage etc etc. I guess I am asking how can I make the best use of this extra Server...I am looking for ideas.
Jerry Solomon
The most common use of the "old" server in an SBS environment is as a Terminal server for remote access--you will need to purchase TS licenses to do this, though. Its hard to do much more with it, as SBS by design does all of the work for the domain, and keeps all roles.
ASKER CERTIFIED SOLUTION
membership
This solution is only available to members.
To access this solution, you must be a member of Experts Exchange.
You can use it as a file server, terminal server, web server (IIS), WSUS, etc. It all just depends on what your company needs. You can use it as a test server if you want to try stuff out before you actually do it on the production server.
There are a few things it cannot be due to SBS 2003, but like stated about there are plenty of things it can be.
I hope this helps. Good luck.
There are a few things it cannot be due to SBS 2003, but like stated about there are plenty of things it can be.
I hope this helps. Good luck.
ASKER
When you say add to the domain ...I am assuming you meanthe server will join the SBS Domain just as the workstations do. I have never used more than one server on the same domain...just curious what this looks like. Is there a tool for replicating Active Directory if I use the old server as a DC ...or does it (like you say Auto magically happen?) Thanks for the in depth answer.
From your Windows Server 2003 box (Not the SBS) go to the run command and type in "DCPromo". That is the wizard to create a domain, or add a Domain Controller to an existing domain. As long as everything is at the right version/revision, this promotion should go without any kind of a hitch (But you should keep an eye on the Application and System Logs from both systems for a couple of weeks). But this upgrade, can cause serious issues on your network if your not configured properly beforehand. Make sure you feel comfortable diagnosing domain issues before performing this promostion.
You should become familiar with tools like DCDiag, DomainPrep, and ForestPrep. Network Admins toolkit essentials. And I can't stress enough the need for a good solid DNS server. Everything on a Windows Network relies on it :)
You should become familiar with tools like DCDiag, DomainPrep, and ForestPrep. Network Admins toolkit essentials. And I can't stress enough the need for a good solid DNS server. Everything on a Windows Network relies on it :)