Restore exchange 5.5 from NT4.0 to Win2000 server

[Nunezy]

Hi all,

If somebody could help me with an issue.

I am trying to move mail boxes and all setup configuration on our exchange server which is running on an NT4.0 server to a new server running Windows 2000 server.

I need to move the mail boxes and the .edb files etc. I do not have a backup unit in the mail server. Yes very primitive site (crazy site). Can I move this via the network to the new server. Which files to I need to copy across to pick up the configuration of Exchange on the NT4.0 server.

Will this cause registry problems? As I know nothing at all about Exchange 5.5 I am a bit worried in doing anything. I have already accidently destroyed the priv.edb file and now the users have lost all their client information. I thought I copied the files, but all copied accept that damn priv.edb.

What is the best way to move my mail server to the new windows 2000 box.

Please help, URGENT!

 

[dmandell]

I think the best way would be to set up a second server (the win2k server) in the same site and set it up to properly replicate with the first exch. 5.5 server and then move the mailboxes from one server to another using "move mailbox".

This is seamless to the users and they don't even know you have moved them. (can be done during working hours)

Microsoft has a couple of technet articles on moving mailboxes. It would be worth checking them out.

or you could "forklift, which is a bit trickier.

http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;199954

if you do not want to use Move Mailbox here are other more involved alternatives.

http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;278736

other useful articles to read while considering the move.

http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;218920

http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;258473

http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;252869

good luck!
Dana