fireguy1125
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Primary Domain Controller + DNS + DHCP + File Server - Virtualize VMWare
Currently have our Primary Domain Controller on a Physical Dell PE2650, it is also our Primary DNS, DHCP, Active Directory and File Server on Server 2003. Looking to do clean install on VM to upgrade PDC to Server 2008 R2, keep as DNS, DHCP, AD only. Then demote the physical domain controller, format and do new install of Server 2008 and only have it has backup domain controller. Also would be creating new File server on 2nd new VM on Server 2008 R2.
Our secondary DC at the site is also an Exchange Server 2003/DNS server. We are planning on getting a new Dell PowerEdge Server and only having it as a stand alone, no domain controller. Perhaps create a 3rd VM just as a DNS server.
Are the steps above appropriate to take? What should I look out for? I'm concerned about the migration from 2003 to 2008 from a physical to virtual environment.
Our secondary DC at the site is also an Exchange Server 2003/DNS server. We are planning on getting a new Dell PowerEdge Server and only having it as a stand alone, no domain controller. Perhaps create a 3rd VM just as a DNS server.
Are the steps above appropriate to take? What should I look out for? I'm concerned about the migration from 2003 to 2008 from a physical to virtual environment.
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That's good (ir: separating Exchg & DC) :)
Now remember, ever since domain 2K, PDC & BDC went away. It's more about "FSMO roles" now. Here are a couple more MS KBs on W2K8:
http://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/library/cc771433(WS.10).aspx#BKMK_NewDCScenario
http://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/library/cc733027(WS.10).aspx
Basically, 2K8 is like 2K3...you can have 2K3 DCs still in the domain. MS's documentation re: 2K8 isn't fully prepared (per this URL: http://www.microsoft.com/windowsserver2008/en/us/why-upgrade-2003.aspx, then at the bottom, see "Resources coming soon"). You'd think they'd have their documentation out by now. Anyway, I can't comment from experience...my domain is still 2K3. The only thing about having dual version DCs is, if 2K8 is like 2K3, you have to run your domain in mixed mode, not native. For more clarification on AD info, you can post a question in the Active Directory EE Zone. :)
Hope that helps though...
~coolsport00
Now remember, ever since domain 2K, PDC & BDC went away. It's more about "FSMO roles" now. Here are a couple more MS KBs on W2K8:
http://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/library/cc771433(WS.10).aspx#BKMK_NewDCScenario
http://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/library/cc733027(WS.10).aspx
Basically, 2K8 is like 2K3...you can have 2K3 DCs still in the domain. MS's documentation re: 2K8 isn't fully prepared (per this URL: http://www.microsoft.com/windowsserver2008/en/us/why-upgrade-2003.aspx, then at the bottom, see "Resources coming soon"). You'd think they'd have their documentation out by now. Anyway, I can't comment from experience...my domain is still 2K3. The only thing about having dual version DCs is, if 2K8 is like 2K3, you have to run your domain in mixed mode, not native. For more clarification on AD info, you can post a question in the Active Directory EE Zone. :)
Hope that helps though...
~coolsport00
ASKER
I have 9 other domain controller at remote sites that are using 2003. Would I have to upgrade these to 2008 when I make the PDC at 2008 server, or will I be good keeping them 2003?