Offine defrag of exchange database

Hello,

I wanted to find out if there is a way to do offline defrag of a single database and keep rest online. We are running Exchange 2007 currently have 4 databases.
EX Database and Mailbox database are on the same disc, Ex DB size is 350 GB and Mailbox DB size is 1.07 TB.
MB3 and MB4 are on two separate discs.

I would like to defrag just Mailbox DB (1.07 TB) I have moved all mailbox to other DB except two which are 50 GB and 2 GB rest is empty space.
Mailbox Database" has 1072331 megabytes of free space after online defragmentation has terminated.
LVL 1
Nirav04Asked:
Who is Participating?
I wear a lot of hats...

"The solutions and answers provided on Experts Exchange have been extremely helpful to me over the last few years. I wear a lot of hats - Developer, Database Administrator, Help Desk, etc., so I know a lot of things but not a lot about one thing. Experts Exchange gives me answers from people who do know a lot about one thing, in a easy to use platform." -Todd S.

Mark BillExchange, AD, SQL, VMware, HPE, 3PAR, FUD, Anti MS Tekhnet, Pro EE, #1Commented:
best thing to do is create a new mailbox and just move what you need, saves the hassle.
0
Seth SimmonsSr. Systems AdministratorCommented:
I wanted to find out if there is a way to do offline defrag of a single database and keep rest online.

yes you could
doing that would just impact those with mailboxes in that database

I have moved all mailbox to other DB except two which are 50 GB and 2 GB rest is empty space.

why not just move those last 2 and delete the database?
0

Experts Exchange Solution brought to you by

Your issues matter to us.

Facing a tech roadblock? Get the help and guidance you need from experienced professionals who care. Ask your question anytime, anywhere, with no hassle.

Start your 7-day free trial
Mark BillExchange, AD, SQL, VMware, HPE, 3PAR, FUD, Anti MS Tekhnet, Pro EE, #1Commented:
but yes here are instructions for offline defrag in exchange 2010

ESEUTIL instructions with technet link https://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/library/aa998863(v=exchg.80).aspx

As mentioned in my first post, was first with the suggestion, create as many mailbox databases as you need and migrate mailboxes into them. then wipe down your old database.
technet docs available for all tasks.
0
Ultimate Tool Kit for Technology Solution Provider

Broken down into practical pointers and step-by-step instructions, the IT Service Excellence Tool Kit delivers expert advice for technology solution providers. Get your free copy now.

Download your Guide
Nirav04Author Commented:
Mark and Seth you both are correct on moving two mailboxes to another database, the only thing holding me back is how long will it take to move 50 GB mailbox but defrag probably will take longer as well.
0
Mark BillExchange, AD, SQL, VMware, HPE, 3PAR, FUD, Anti MS Tekhnet, Pro EE, #1Commented:
defrag is messy too, best avoided if possible.

just move them mailbox by mailbox out of hours if needs be, worth the sacrifice for me, cant remember if 2007 allows online migration like 2013. I do not believe it does off the top of my head.

Yes both correct, but one answered first.
0
Mark BillExchange, AD, SQL, VMware, HPE, 3PAR, FUD, Anti MS Tekhnet, Pro EE, #1Commented:
Seth is a solid poster on here in fairness, he has beat me to the punch a few times on here. He is also a really good expert.

Good luck and watch out for arbitration mailboxes, they have to be moved too.
0
Nirav04Author Commented:
After moving both mailboxes what is correct procedure for removing Mailbox DB?  Arbitration mailbox please provide some guidance?
0
Mark BillExchange, AD, SQL, VMware, HPE, 3PAR, FUD, Anti MS Tekhnet, Pro EE, #1Commented:
This link outlined how to remove a DB
https://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/library/aa998918(v=exchg.80).aspx

remove mailbox db command, personally I would just leave it sitting there for some time, take many backups before performing major tasks.

Correction there are no arbitration mailboxes in 2007 see this https://social.technet.microsoft.com/Forums/exchange/en-US/badc67ff-ae85-4ce8-84d9-28e2718bb536/deleting-default-mailbox-database-exchange-2007-sp1?forum=exchangesvradminlegacy
0
Mark BillExchange, AD, SQL, VMware, HPE, 3PAR, FUD, Anti MS Tekhnet, Pro EE, #1Commented:
Dont be scared, it is a easy and mundane task to do this. I know it seems scary. Just ensure of image backups.
0
Annie RoseTech LeadCommented:
0
Nirav04Author Commented:
Thank you all for guidance and immediate assistance.
0
Nirav04Author Commented:
Sorry, I know a question is closed but I have one last question to ask. Is there a way to move a mailbox to another database while end user still has access to it?
Thank you
0
It's more than this solution.Get answers and train to solve all your tech problems - anytime, anywhere.Try it for free Edge Out The Competitionfor your dream job with proven skills and certifications.Get started today Stand Outas the employee with proven skills.Start learning today for free Move Your Career Forwardwith certification training in the latest technologies.Start your trial today
Exchange

From novice to tech pro — start learning today.

Question has a verified solution.

Are you are experiencing a similar issue? Get a personalized answer when you ask a related question.

Have a better answer? Share it in a comment.