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Removing 1st Domain Controller in Domai

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by techie

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When I created my first domain controller in W2k I used a PC class workstation, Now I have five additional Compaq servers that are domain controllers. I now want to get rid of this PC class domain controller, but it is the primary. What do I have to migrate over to one of the additional servers? Also how do I do this migration. I have already made one of the additional domain controllers the global catalog server.

5 replies

by rabbit_runner

If the computer is the DC of a Windows 2000 domeain, do the following......

Run / Start

type: dcpromo (then click okay)
this starts the wizard to remove the computer from the domain.

NOTE: In a windows 2K domain structure, there isno PDC or BDC's. They are all Domain Controllers (DC's) Even though the first system is removed, it will not make any difference.

by ins413

Aside from the obvious data that needs to be transferred, there will need to be a transfer of FSMO Roles. There are several ways to do this. One way is to demote the primary domain controller and allow for a "graceful" transfer of the roles. I have done this and I would say it worked about 50% of the time. I would go with a forceful transfer (through AD) or seizure (thru ntdsutil) for several reasons. One reason is that you know that it will work by simply checking to see if the role transfered, and if it didn't, you can try it again. Another is that it gives you the flexibility of putting these roles where you want them to be. MS recommends that the GC and Infrasctructure Master not be located on the same server. Thus, it makes your job easier if something ever does happen and you must locate these roles. With a "graceful" transfer, you do not have the option to move these roles to a particular server or servers, the roles can be transferred to any available server. There are many different opinions about what should be done, and I am sure that they are all right. This method has worked for me in the past. A quick tip: Make sure that AD has been replicated before moving on with any transfer of FSMO roles.

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