Upgrading Existing Domain Controllers in Windows Server 2008



If the decision has been made to upgrade all or some existing hardware to Windows Server 2008, the process for accomplishing this is simple. However, as with the standalone server, you need to make sure that the hardware and any additional software components are compatible with Windows Server 2008. The requirements for the server to upgrade are as follows:

1) The operating system on the domain controllers is Windows Server 2003 SP1 or higher.

2) The domain controller hardware exceeds the Windows Server 2008 requirements and all software is compatible with Windows Server 2008, including antivirus software and drivers.

3) There is enough disk space free to perform the operating system and Active Directory upgrade. Specifically, verify that your free space is at least twice the size of your Active Directory database plus the minimum 8GB required to install the operating system.

After establishing this, the actual migration can occur. Basically, simply insert the DVD and upgrade, and an hour or so later the machine will be updated and functioning as a Windows Server 2008 domain controller. The specific steps are as follows:

1. Insert the Windows Server 2008 DVD into the DVD drive of the server to be upgraded.

2. The Install Windows page should appear automatically. If not, click on Start and then select Run and then type d:\Setup, where d: is the drive letter for the DVD drive or you can directly open from My Computer and the right-click the DVD drive and click on Open and then select Setup.

3. Click Install Now.

4. Click the large Go Online to Get the Latest Updates button. This makes sure that the installation has the latest information for the upgrade.

5. Enter your product key and click Next.

6. Select I Accept This Agreement on the License page, and click Next to continue.

7. Click the large Upgrade button.

8. Review the compatibility report and verify that all issues have been addressed. Click Next to continue.

9. The system then copies files and reboots as a Windows 2008 server, continuing the upgrade process. After all files are copied, the system is then upgraded to a fully functional install of Windows Server 2008 and then reboots again. All this can take some time to complete.

10. After the final reboot, the domain controller will be at the familiar Ctrl+Alt+Del screen. After logon, the domain controller opens to the Server Manager console. The domain controller upgrade is complete.

Repeat for all domain controllers that will be upgraded.