Need to upgrade 2 virtual Domain Controllers to Server 2016 from 2012
I need to upgrade 2 Domain Controllers from Windows Server 2012 (not R2) to 2016. They are both in VM. I have a PDC and 1 that is replicating.
What is the best method to do the upgrade for both servers?
From what I am reading, the vmware version is a factor in getting the DC's upgraded to 2016.
Does this mean I need to upgrade to server 2012 R2 first, then upgrade the vmware version, then upgrade to 2016?
If keeping the same hardware and storage is my only option, what is the best path to get my DC's to 2016?
What is the best method to do the upgrade for both servers?
From what I am reading, the vmware version is a factor in getting the DC's upgraded to 2016.
Does this mean I need to upgrade to server 2012 R2 first, then upgrade the vmware version, then upgrade to 2016?
If keeping the same hardware and storage is my only option, what is the best path to get my DC's to 2016?
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ASKER
We are running vSphere version 6.0
Windows Server 2016 is supported on vSphere 6.0.
So you have no issues, either doing an in place upgrade NOT RECOMMENDED, or installing new servers!
so I'm not sure what you have read....the answer to that question is No.
So you have no issues, either doing an in place upgrade NOT RECOMMENDED, or installing new servers!
From what I am reading, the vmware version is a factor in getting the DC's upgraded to 2016.
Does this mean I need to upgrade to server 2012 R2 first, then upgrade the vmware version, then upgrade to 2016?
so I'm not sure what you have read....the answer to that question is No.
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ASKER
Thank you all for the very helpful information!
It's not really got anything to with VMware. But Microsoft does not really recommend in-place upgrades, and many have documented issues with DC in-place upgrades.
here is one issues
https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/help/3201247/netlogon-service-doesn-t-retain-settings-after-in-place-upgrade-to-win
As long as your vSphere version supports 2016, there is no issue, insert the "CDROM" iso, and click Setup for an in-place upgrade.
If you want to complete an inplace upgrade.
So what version of ESXi do you have ?