Re-installing and Importing Active Directory

[JuanCCSI]

Hi all, I have a domain and there is some corruption with the server files that cause it lose function after a while, but that's another story.

My question: Is it possible to export everything in Active Directory and after a re-install, import it back the way it was?

 

[Davetoo]

Why? Just bring up another server as a DC and it will replicate to it.

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

There are no more PDC's! There are DC's with FSMO roles!

 

[JuanCCSI]

I like your thinking, when I'm running DCPROMO, what should I pick as the option, Primary DC or Backup DC?

 

[Davetoo]

There are no PDC's...as seen in my tagline. You simply DCPROMO the server into your existing domain as another DC.

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

There are no more PDC's! There are DC's with FSMO roles!

 

[JuanCCSI]

LOL, great thanks, I guess I was thinking of the NT days huh? I'll give that a try, but is there still a way to export everything in one try?

 

[Davetoo]

You could backup the server and capture the system state as well...but there's no guarantee. Usually admins just toss another server in and promo it to capture the AD information. Plus...if it fails, then you know your AD is hosed and you would need to redo it regardless.

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

There are no more PDC's! There are DC's with FSMO roles!

 

[JuanCCSI]

Your method about the other server makes the most sense, and the fastest. Its probably best to just replicate the AD to another server.

 

[Roadki11]

Then you will want to transfer the FSMO roles, GC, DNS, DHCP and any other services to the new server, then dcpromo the old box out of the domain. Then take it out to the local rod and gun club and use it for target practice. Atleast thats what i do.



RoadKi11

"This apparent fear reaction is typical, rather than try to solve technical problems technically, policy solutions are often chosen." - Fred Cohen