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Change domain name in Active Directory

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7 replies

by pshotts

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How can I change the root domain name in Active Directory on my Windows 2000 Server which is the only domain controller?

7 replies

by gilesdg

You can't. The forest root domain name can not be changed. Your first domain controller of the first domain is also by default the forest root, even if there are no other domains.

by tony.colgrove

You cannot change the root domain after it is installed. If this is your only server, you can dcpromo (if its a DC it will demote it). All user accounts will be converted to a local SAM (OU's and computer accounts are lost). You can then run dcpromo again and choose the root domain name you wish to use.

by aekland

The two answers are correct. This is why so much planning needs to go into AD implementation. The Domain name cannot be changed except by running dcpromo to demote it and then run it again to promote it. As stated all AD stuff will be lost.

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