Migrate W2K & Ex2k server to W2K3 help.

[waksimus]

Ok heres my situation,
A client has one 2000 server that is a domain controller and also runs Exchange 2000. Now they have purchased another beefier server that will run 2003 server and also exchange 2003. The old server will eventaully be formatted and used as a terminal server.

The existing 2000 server has problems with services failing constantly hence the upgrade.

Now my plan of attack is:
. add the new server to the existing domain, run dcpromo and make the new server the new PDC.
. force replication and verify replictaion has happened.
. transfer fsmo roles to the new server.
. install ex2k3 & join existing organistaion.
. then move mailboxes to the new servers IStore via Users and computers.
. verify mailboxes are moved and accessible.
. remove ex2k server as per microsoft KB article.
. demote old server.


Would this work?
Any advice or articles on this would help greatly!

Thanks in advance.
Mark

 

[GuyThomas]

Despite assurances that the software gets easier, I find that Exchange Migrations are always the toughest.

I am assuming that you are migrating to the same organization.

What you need to watch out for is compatability between Exchange and Windows active directory.

Beware of the Standard Exchange 2003 always choose the enterprise version.

Here are some more tips on what to look out for.

http://computerperformance.co.uk/exchange2003/exchange_2003_upgrade_2000.htm