Raise the domain functionality

[dennis99]

I have a domain with three Windows 2003 servers. Currently the domain functionality is 2003 interim. I am planning to raise it to full 2003. Has anyone ever encountered a problem when doing this? Is there anything I should be aware of? The Microsoft book (p. 398) doesn't say much, other than some simple steps on how to do it.

Thanks

[homecomputeraid]

When you say full 2003, I think you're referring to 2003 Native Mode? I have done this on a Windows 2000 Domain, but not 2003. Please make sure you understand the ramifications before proceeding. I don't think you can go back once you change to Native Mode.

At a minimum, I recommend that you read this entire page: http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?...kb;en-us;322692

and heed this caution:

CAUTION: Do not raise the domain functional level if you have, or will have, any Windows NT 4.0 or earlier domain controllers. As soon as the domain functional level is raised to Windows 2000 native or Windows Server 2003, it cannot be changed back to a Windows 2000 mixed domain.

Do you have any legacy servers on your network?

It wasn't a big deal to implement in 2000, and doesn't look difficult in 2003 either.

[dennis99]

Thanks. I did read that same article. I don't have any older servers. I'll let you know how it goes.