NLB cluster on Domain Controller... Is it possible? 2

[mlchris2]

I have a question...

I have 2 MS2k3Srv Web Ed servers that are part of a NLB cluster acting as a Web Farm. These two servers are in a remote location and not part of my Corp domain. I would like to get my remote network upgraded to a Domain.

I need to know if I can run a NLB cluster as a Web Farm on a server acting as a Domain Controller/Backup Domain Controller?

Your help is greatly appriciated.

Mark C.
Network Admin
Digital Draw Network
SLC, UT

 

[adcfaq]

no, web edition is web edition, u can't set up a DC on it.

-----
Directory Services/Exchange Consultant

 

[mlchris2]

first, I should have put this under the Windows 2003 Server forum.

I was planning on reinstalling Windows 2k3 Server Stnd Ed. on these servers, promote one to DC and then use the other as Backup DC and then setup the web farm/NLB cluster.

I take it as long as I dont use Web Edition, I should be okay???

 

[jamescoyle]

You can rebuild these server with windows 2003 standard and promote both to DC's.

You should never put DC's on a cluster.. This is possible but when you have to do a DS restore you will hit alot of issues and my have to force remove AD.. so keep your DC's and Clusters separte,, even if you are just going to use NLB.

 

[AndyPeck]

Mark

I would not advise having DC's in a DMZ with you web servers or making the web servers DC's if you intend to keep them in the DMZ.

Andy

 

[mlchris2]

thanks for the information. I figured it Would work... but not the best solution.

Here is where my battle is... trying to convice the powers that be this configuration is not a good idea. I am having the same trouble wiht a domain issue and he just wont budge.

One question. I hear all this talk about restore issues with DS and AD... I assume the task of restoring these services from a downed DC is a tough task in itself... having a DC on my NLB webfarm will make the process even more troublesome, correct?