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Connecting to DNS server

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16 replies

by horgeh

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Hi, I have set up a windows server 2003 as DNS, with AD and as the domain controller. I have run both dcdiag and netdiag and all the tests pass. Whenever I type in the Domain name into a client computer I get the following error: "A domain controller for the domain could not be contacted. Ensure domain name is typed correctly" Any input would be appreciated!

16 replies

by sgt_shultz

can you ping the dc? can you pull down the firewall on the client pc for a test. what os and sp is the client pc and how about sp level for the server? have you tried joining another pc to the domain?

by sgt_shultz

also syncronize time - watch the timezones are the same also

by horgeh

this is how the network is set up
Modem > Router > Switch >Server and clients

by horgeh

When I was in the router setup page I notice the server's IP address is not listed in the DHCP table. I can still ping it tho.

by horgeh

I can ping it with the static IP I've assigned to it. I have a router covering the DHCP, I dont know if thats a problem. I have tried other clients as well and same error. Client is running XP pro SP2...server is 2003R2 SE SP2

by sgt_shultz

then see if you can join the domain. watch for trailing spaces in the domain name. you might also have a look at the event log on both boxes to see if any clues in there.

by horgeh

We have a workgroup in the office already...pretty much a home network. Everything works fine...but it is limited which is why we want a domain system.

by ic-it

Have you added the computer to the AD structure through new - computer?

by horgeh

I have added the computer and a new user

by ic-it

Hopefully the server has a static IP and thusley is not in the DHCP list. It is within the subnet and uses the same gateway.
When trying to join is this a local domain i.e. mydomain.local or registered i.e. mydomain.org
Have you tried the FQDN when joining?

by horgeh

Subnet is 255.255.255.0
gateway is 192.168.1.1 (routers IP)
Preferred DNS server: 192.169.1.102

The domain is local and I can't join using FQDN either...I get "the networkpath could nto be found"

by horgeh

should the server be running the DNS client service? Can that conflict at all?

by fred123456

I may be stating the obvious but you don't mention something. How are you passing out IP's, Static or Dynamic? But either way is the DNS entry entered in to the client their and correct?

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Also, what was the state of the server before hand?
Was it something that you promoted to become a Domain Controller?
Was something else the primary domain controller?
I don't think its actually possible to have a PDC without Active DNS configured.

I had a big problem when configuring a DNS server when I turned on DNS after the fact.

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