How do I set up a BDC

[catluvr]

We have a server that has been called BDC for years but I just found out that in fact it is only a server with a copy of the AD database on it. My question is how do I make this server a real BDC? This "BDC" doesn't have AD on it. It has to have that if it is going to be the BDC doesn't it? Also, I want to set up replication from PDC to BDC. As you can tell, I don't know much about this. This job falls under "other duties as assigned"!! I've searched the Internet for help, but can't find instructions on how to set this up. This is a Windows 2000 server environment.

Any advise is GREATLY appreciated.

 

[Davetoo]

There are no PDC's and BDC's beginning with 2000 Server.

If you have a member server in a 2000 domain, you can simply DCPROMO it to become an AD server. When you do that, it will automatically replicate with your original DC to obtain a copy of your AD objects. Then, when you change any object on your original DC, it will automatically replicate to the 2nd DC, etc.

I'm Certifiable, not cert-ified.
It just means my answers are from experience, not a book.

 

[catluvr]

So this member server your talking about would be what I'm calling the BDC correct? And all I have to do is run a command line and type DCPROMO and it will go out there and replicate with what I'm calling my PDC? Aw, come on. It can't be that easy!! Does this DCPROMO command bring over the AD program as well? I'm really not stupid, I just don't know anything about this and don't want to screw anything up.

Thanks for the quick reply!!

 

[Davetoo]

To be honest, you may want to run down to the bookstore and pickup a book on Windows 2000 Server. You'll be better off in the long run.

DCPROMO is the command to bring a W2K Server into an AD domain. You do a Start - Run and enter DCPROMO in to begin the process, then follow the prompts to promote your member server to a DC.

Read the FAQ's here as well, there's a wealth of information to be found to answer all of your questions.

I'm Certifiable, not cert-ified.
It just means my answers are from experience, not a book.

 

[dberg35]

Also check out

http://www.microsoft.com/technet

that will give you all sorts of info.