Introduction
In this article, we will discuss the step-by-step process of migrating a domain controller from Windows Server 2012 R2 to Windows Server 2019. Migrating a domain controller is a crucial task in any IT infrastructure upgrade or consolidation project. It ensures that the active directory services and user accounts are seamlessly transferred to the new server without any disruption to the network.
Outline:
- Preparation for Migration
- Checking System Requirements
- Backing up Active Directory
- Installing Windows Server 2019
- Promoting the New Server to a Domain Controller
- Transferring FSMO Roles
- Verifying Replication
- Demoting the Old Server
- Testing the New Domain Controller
- Conclusion
1. Preparation for Migration
Before starting the migration process, it is important to prepare the environment to ensure a smooth transition. Here are a few key steps to follow:
1.1. Perform a Health Check
Run a comprehensive health check on the existing domain controller to identify any issues or errors that might affect the migration process. Resolve any issues found before proceeding.
1.2. Document the Existing Configuration
Create a detailed documentation of the existing domain controller’s configuration, including DNS settings, DHCP settings, and any other relevant configurations. This documentation will serve as a reference during the migration process.
1.3. Prepare a Backup and Recovery Plan
Create a backup and recovery plan for the existing domain controller. This plan should include regular backups of the active directory database, system state, and any other critical data. This will ensure that you can roll back to the previous state in case of any issues during the migration.
2. Checking System Requirements
Before installing Windows Server 2019 on the new server, it is important to ensure that it meets the minimum system requirements. The new server should have sufficient hardware resources to handle the active directory services and user accounts.
2.1. Hardware Requirements
The new server should meet the minimum hardware requirements for Windows Server 2019. These requirements include sufficient RAM, CPU power, and disk space to handle the workload.
2.2. Software Requirements
Make sure that the new server is running a supported operating system for the migration. Windows Server 2019 requires a 64-bit version of Windows Server 2012 R2 or later for the migration process.
3. Backing up Active Directory
Before proceeding with the migration, it is crucial to create a backup of the active directory database on the existing domain controller. This backup will serve as a safety net in case anything goes wrong during the migration process.
3.1. Using Windows Server Backup
Windows Server Backup is a built-in feature in Windows Server 2012 R2 that allows you to create a backup of the active directory database. Follow the steps below to perform the backup:
- Open the Windows Server Backup console.
- Select “Local Backup” and click “Next”.
- Choose “Custom” as the backup configuration and click “Next”.
- Select the “System State” checkbox and click “Next”.
- Choose a backup location and click “Next”.
- Review the backup settings and click “Backup” to start the backup process.
4. Installing Windows Server 2019
Once the backup is complete, it is time to install Windows Server 2019 on the new server. Follow the steps below:
4.1. Boot from the Installation Media
Insert the Windows Server 2019 installation media into the new server and boot from it. Follow the on-screen instructions to start the installation process.
4.2. Select the Installation Type
Choose the appropriate installation type for your environment. Select “Custom: Install Windows only (advanced)”.
4.3. Partition and Format the Disk
Create a new partition on the disk and format it with the NTFS file system. This will be used to install the operating system.
4.4. Install Windows Server 2019
Select the newly created partition and click “Next” to start the installation process. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.
5. Promoting the New Server to a Domain Controller
Once the installation is complete, it is time to promote the new server to a domain controller. Follow the steps below:
5.1. Open Server Manager
Open Server Manager on the new server and click on “Add roles and features”.
5.2. Select the Server
Select the local server on which you want to install the Active Directory Domain Services role.
5.3. Add Roles and Features
Click on “Add roles and features” and follow the on-screen instructions to add the Active Directory Domain Services role.
5.4. Configure the Domain Controller
Follow the wizard to configure the new server as a domain controller. Provide the necessary information, such as the domain name, forest functional level, and administrator credentials.
6. Transferring FSMO Roles
After promoting the new server to a domain controller, it is important to transfer the FSMO roles from the old server to the new server. Follow the steps below:
6.1. Open the Command Prompt
Open the Command Prompt with administrative privileges on the new server.
6.2. Transfer the FSMO Roles
Use the “ntdsutil” command to transfer the FSMO roles to the new server. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the transfer.
7. Verifying Replication
Once the FSMO roles have been transferred, it is important to verify the replication between the old and new servers. Follow the steps below:
7.1. Open the Active Directory Sites and Services
Open the Active Directory Sites and Services console on the new server.
7.2. Check the Replication Status
Check the replication status between the old and new servers. Ensure that the replication is successful and all domain controllers are communicating with each other.
8. Demoting the Old Server
After verifying the replication, it is time to demote the old server from the domain controller role. Follow the steps below:
8.1. Open the Server Manager
Open the Server Manager on the old server and click on “Manage”> “Remove Roles and Features”.
8.2. Select the Server
Select the local server from which you want to remove the Active Directory Domain Services role.
8.3. Remove the Role
Click on “Remove Roles and Features” and follow the on-screen instructions to remove the Active Directory Domain Services role.
9. Testing the New Domain Controller
After demoting the old server, it is important to test the new domain controller to ensure that everything is functioning properly. Follow the steps below:
9.1. Verify User Logins
Ensure that users can log in to the domain using their credentials. Test the logins on various client machines to ensure that the authentication is working correctly.
9.2. Test Group Policy Application
Create a test group policy and apply it to a test user or group. Verify that the group policy settings are being applied correctly on the client machines.
9.3. Test Replication
Perform a replication test to ensure that the new domain controller is replicating changes correctly with other domain controllers in the network.
Conclusion
In conclusion, migrating a domain controller from Windows Server 2012 R2 to Windows Server 2019 requires careful planning and execution. By following the step-by-step process outlined in this article, you can ensure a smooth and successful migration without any disruption to your network. Remember to always perform backups, verify replication, and thoroughly test the new domain controller before decommissioning the old server.
FAQs
Q1: Can I perform the migration process without backing up the active directory?
A1: It is highly recommended to create a backup of the active directory before proceeding with the migration. This backup will serve as a safety net in case anything goes wrong during