Installing Exchange on a domain controller?

We are very small business firm like less than 10 people. I planning to setup new server. Initially I thought install AD, DNS, DHCP, DC and Exchange on same server. Microsoft not recommending all in my server Installing Exchange on a domain controller is not recommended.

So give me suggestion, Is it OK install everything on server for small company like us? or 

create 1 virtual and install Exchange on that server and rest will be on base?. 

January 27th, 2015 12:34am

Go virtual.

I've installed many Exchange servers for my customers. Since Exchange 2010 I've installed only virtual and never a single physical Exchange server.

As far as Exchange on DC is concerned, like it says in the recommendation, definitely not recommended.

And while you are at virtual, create separate volumes for mailbox database and mailbox log. That's the best practice. 

  • Proposed as answer by DJ Grijalva Monday, January 26, 2015 10:33 PM
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January 27th, 2015 12:50am

Hi,

It is not recommended to install Exchange server on a domain controller. You can create a virtual Exchange server, there is a lot of planning that goes into constructing a virtualized Exchange infrastructure, with the primary consideration being hardware allocation and fault tolerance. Concerning these factors will guide you to a solid and reliable infrastructure.

For more information, here is a blog for your reference.

Microsoft Exchange 2010: Establishing a Virtual Exchange 2010 Datacenter (Note: Though it is Exchange 2010, it is also helpful to Exchange 2013 about this issue)

https://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/magazine/hh641416.aspx

Hope this can be helpful to you.

Best regards,

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January 27th, 2015 12:27pm

Hi,

Is there any update with your issue?

Best regards,

If you have feedback for TechNet Subscriber Support, contact tnmff@microsoft.com

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February 1st, 2015 9:56pm

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