Exchange 2003 question - restore to new domain 1

[charliecahill]

Hello all,
I have a small network with two servers, both running Windows 2003 Server. We have a total of 40 users. One of the servers is running Exchange 2003. Due to a lot of network/DNS/replication problems it has been decided to rebuild from the ground up. We wish to use a new domain name when we do.

The current size of the Exchange information store is just under 16 gigs and I have tested backing up and restoring it, have no problems there (Veritas 11D)

What I plan to do is take a full backup of everything, then reinstall both servers using a new domain name, install active directory and recreate all user accounts. I would then install Exchange and restore the mailboxes. The question I have is am I going to have trouble restoring mailboxes to a different domain? Usernames will be the same.

Thanks in advance for your suggestions and advice.

 

[58sniper]

Can I ask why you're recreating the domain and not just renaming it? That seems like an awful lot of wasted time and effort.

Pat Richard
Microsoft Exchange MVP

 

[58sniper]

I'll add that the DNS and replication issues should be resolved without rebuilding. Otherwise, how are you sure you're not going to recreate the same problems?

Pat Richard
Microsoft Exchange MVP

 

[Zelandakh]

Fix the problem, don't run away and create more.

DNS problems aren't Exchange. More to the point they should be simple.
Network problems won't really be cured by reloading a server if they really are network problems.
Replication? You've only got 2 servers...

 

[charliecahill]

Hello all,
Thanks for your quick replies. The reason I am looking to rebuild is that the domain was originally created as a single-label domain, which has caused some problems and I know now not to do. Trial and error by multiple individuals has left a real mess of things as far as DNS and replication goes.

I had looked at renaming the domain, but Exchange is installed on a domain controller and according to Microsoft the domain rename process will only work if Exchange is installed on a member server, not a domain controller. Could I uninstall AD to make the Exchange server a member server, then rename domain?

Sorry if these are obvious questions, I have spent much time searching the forums and have not found the answer. This network is 400+ miles away so I am trying to have all my ducks in a row before I start

 

[58sniper]

No. You cannot demote or promote a server running Exchange. Ever.

Running Exchange on a DC is a bad idea, and not recommended.

Move Exchange to another box, then rename the domain.

Pat Richard
Microsoft Exchange MVP

 

[charliecahill]

Thanks 58sniper- I'll do that

 

[Zelandakh]

With Exchange and AD on the same box you have to remove Exchange not AD, it doesn't work the other way round.

 

[ntinlin]

Check some of the other threads for details on removing the first Exchange server in an org so you don't run into problems. There is a specific MS KB article that details the process.

Or do a search for 'removing first exchange server in organization' :-D

Neill

 

[58sniper]

kb 822931 is the one you want.

Pat Richard
Microsoft Exchange MVP