Moving data from 1 DC to another machine

[ITShelps]

Thank you in advance for the help. I have a 2003 box running AD as a DC. I am replacing the machine and would like to migrate all of the user profiles/group policy and exchange message store, etc to a new machine. What is the best way to do this?


Thank you,

 

[Cstorms]

First of all, setup a new box With Win2k3 Server on it, dcpromo it into the existing environment, verify that it is in the same site as the original DC, make this machine host a copy of the Global Catalog (also in AD Sites and Services) check and verify replication of not only active directory but also dns (all the zones you want moved over). Verify dcdiag and netdiag for any errors, maybe give it a day to guarantee everything is replicated.

From here transfer FSMO roles (using ntdsutil), verify this of course. Once all is replicate, FSMO roles are transfered, and your coffee is warm, demote the old machine.

Cory

 

[Davetoo]

If you're running Exchange on a DC, then what you really want to do is move Exchange to a non-DC server, as it's really not a good idea to have Exchange on your DC.

On to the question, if you bring up your new server and dcpromo it into your AD, then after the servers replicate your new server will have all of your AD info on it. You can then transfer your FSMO roles over to the new server, make sure DNS, DHCP, and any other services are up and running on the new server if it handles any, and you're set.

The Exchange is going to be an issue because basically what you'll have to do is bring up your new Exchange server then migrate the users over to it using ADUC, basically move their mailboxes to the new server store.

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

 

[Cstorms]

Ohh didnt notice the exchange part. I am reading a few things at once, there is some specialities in regards to if this machine also hosts your exchange. This will require the help from someone else.

Cory

 

[ITShelps]

Hey Guys. Thank you for the responses. I failed to mention that this is SBS we are dealing with. Does that change anything?