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Replacing a PDC

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by callahanj

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We have a PDC experiencing hardware problems and we want to replace the system.A major issue with the PDC is it's a WINS and DHCP server for it's domain. I've located some articles about migrating the DHCP and WINS to the new server but we are looking for feedback on the best way to do this that will least effect our users.

Thanks.

5 replies

by frobo

Hi,

i havve do?n many migrations before and the best way is the simplest way.
! Migrating to a new Hardware during offwork hour?s!
Prepare carefully your migration Project.
Install a second NT-version on the old Machine. Make an "Offline" Backup" from your PDC. OR an Online Backup, where you start RDISK /S- before. (We care about the registry)
Look if your current HD-Controller installed will work on the new Hardware. If not, install the driver on the old machine, yea you will get errors in the event viewer.

Make an "Offline Copy" from the PDC out the new NT with NTbackup.

Install on the new Hardware NT Server in an diffrent Path (type what you want) so that?s diffrent from the on on tape. Boot that NT, install the Tape driver, restore your NT.
Restart the Server and boot the NT you restored from tape. Now care about the little Problems like diffrent VGA driver and so on. A the end it is a simple procedure and fast.

Et voil? your? ready to use it

Frobo

by msgtray

Disclaimer: This is not the only way to skin a cat. Key assumptions: 1. New hardware is complete and you don't need anything from the old server. 2. Minimum impact an users is prime consideration. 3. You have, or have access to, adiquate knowledge and experience to install and configure the required services. and 4. You desire to start with a fresh NT install.

General Procedure:
1. Install NT on the new box as a BDC to your domain.
2. Insure it is completely functional and promote it to PDC.
3. Copy any Profiles or login scripts from old server and then disconnect LAN cable from new server. (users will still function normally)
4. While not attached to network accomplish the following:
a. Rename the server to the old server name b. Change the IP address to old server address.
c. Install and configure WINS & DHCP to immulate services on old server (use running server as reference if required).
5. Shut down old server gracefully. Reconnect network cable on running new server.
6. If user data is located on the old server, rename, readdress, & disable DHCP while disconnected from network. Reconnect to network and move data to new location (restore data from backup for easiest method to retain permissions).

Anticipated problems: DHCP lease conflicts. While new server is building new lease table, it may assign leases that conflict with existing assignments. Several ways to mitigate problem but I'm running out of room. If you decide to folow this course, email me and I will explain.

Ray

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