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Conflicting Domain Names

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5 replies

by peter johnstone

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I have inherited a sticky little problem: There are two small networks run on NT 4.0 Server (SP6a) each with it?s own PDC and 15 Workstations. When they were installed they were unfortunately given the same Domain names. We are now in a position to connect the two networks together, the requirement is two make one larger network with one PDC & one BDC and to add on 15 more workstations. The problem is the two PDC?s with the same Domain Name. As far as I see it the Data files will have to be copied across from one PDC to the other (no problem) and Accounts created for the existing & new Workstations that are joining. Then the joining PDC will have to have NT Server reinstalled as a BDC to get rid of the Accounts & Domain Name. I?m sure that lots of more experienced Admins will be able to give me some better advice, please feel free to do so asap! Thanks in advance!

5 replies

by cavedweller

Actually, your approach seems quite good. I would copy over user data using tape if possible. I would create new accounts on the (staying) pdc. Shut down the PDC you're not keeping and all its workstations. Then, boot the workstations, log in tothe local administrator account and change the network settings as needed. Change their identification to some bogus workgroup, reboot them again and then add them to the "new" domain. Be sure to merge the login scripts so that everything works asbefore. Start with one workstation and make sure it works before you whack tham all!

by peter johnstone

Thanks for your reply, I was actualy hoping for a (lazy) way out that did?t involve rebuilding one of the PDC?s as a BDC , if you see what I mean! One PDC is now rebuilt as BDC and all Workstations moved over. However as both answers I received had usefull info I?m grading both as ?Acceptable?, thanks for taking the time and trouble to reply.
Regards,
PJ

by bhrdwh

Since you have same names, only one PDC will work along with its BDC & Users. I suggest you keeps one domian PDC& its BDC. Backup your data of domain1 into a Tape Drive & restore it into the domain2. Now create all the users of domain1 in PDC of domain2.
If you have NT WrkStns in domain1, you'll have to add them into Server Manager. For Win98/95/ME no problms.
All the best. Do let me know if it worked.
Akash

by peter johnstone

Thanks for your reply, I was actualy hoping for a (lazy) way out that did?t involve rebuilding one of the PDC?s as a BDC , if you see what I mean! One PDC is now rebuilt as BDC and all Workstations moved over. However as both answers I received had usefull info I?m grading both as ?Acceptable?, thanks for taking the time and trouble to reply.
Regards,
PJ

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