Replacing Exchange 2003 server

[SoulAssassin]

I am in the process of replacing a server which runs Exch2k3 and also is a DC. This was set up awhile ago on less than desireable hardware and is running out of resources.

My question: According to this link --

http://support.microsoft.com/kb/822945

I can keep the same name and IP, however it cautions against deleting AD objects if it is a DC. There are two other servers which function as DCs. Could I run dcpromo to demote this Exchange server and then follow the instructions supplied in the link?

Also, if anyone has ever done this please feel free to share your experiences.

Thanks in advance!

 

[SoulAssassin]

An update: I checked AD Sites and Services and it appears it's not a DC after all, I didn't actually click on the server name first. The other two servers have the NTDS Settings and say 'domain controller' in the "type" field on the right.

 

[58sniper]

Okay, I'll ask - is it important to keep the same server name? If so, why? Once you answer, I can provide some more info.

Pat Richard, MCSE(2) MCSA:Messaging, CNA(2)
Want to know how email works? Read for yourself -

http://www.ietf.org/rfc/rfc2821.txt

 

[SoulAssassin]

Apparently it is. Granted I don't do a lot of day to day work for this client - I typically do the server maintenance although I didn't implement the current servers. Basically they have fax and VOIP messages entering into the Exchange server. We do not control the VOIP system nor the border routers.

After speaking with the VOIP provider they initially told me that it should be a high priority to attempt to keep the same name and IP. I was told the original installer would call me but that hasn't happened yet.

In short, it would be beneficial to several different parties to keep it the same.

 

[58sniper]

Well, consider that if you DON'T have to keep the same name, you have the benefit of time on your side. You could bring up the new server, and work with those responsible for the VOIP and faxing to direct to the new server. When you move mailboxes over, Outlook will be automatically updated when it's opened again (assuming you leave the old server online for a while).

And, to answer your original (but now irrelevant question), NO - NEVER DEMOTE OR PROMOTE A SERVER RUNNING EXCHANGE. DOING SO WILL PERMANENTLY BREAK EXCHANGE!!!!

Pat Richard, MCSE(2) MCSA:Messaging, CNA(2)
Want to know how email works? Read for yourself -

http://www.ietf.org/rfc/rfc2821.txt