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Change Domain Name

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6 replies

by dion1

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I have a Network running NT 4.0 with one PDC and one BDC, we are going to migrate to windows 2000 and I want to change the domain name before the migration takes place. Can some one let me know the easiest and safe way to re-name the entire domain name to this domain.

6 replies

by ninet4

Machine 1: Original PDC
Machine 2: Original BDC
Machine 3: New machine

Create Machine 3 as a BDC to your existing domain. Once it is online promote it to a PDC. This will either force or allow you to demote Machine 1 to a BDC. Rebuild Machine 3 as a PDC with the new domain name you want to use. Join machine 1 to the new domain as a BDC. Promote Machine 1 to a PDC. Get rid of Machine 3, unless you want to keep it as a BDC. Joins Machine 2 as a BDC to the new domain. Each time a BDC/PDC is promoted/demoted, a synchronization occurs first, so you will not loose any users/groups. Same happens for joining new DCs to a domain.

I did this in a lab environment about 2 years ago, worked out fine. Most importantly, make sure you have backups of your data, including your SAM file. Definately create a new ERD.

by timwalsh

Check out the following MS KnowledgeBase article

Renaming a Domain: Process and Side Effects (Q178009)

by dion1

What about workstations? Need to configure them to join the domain one by one?

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