if i place a DC at one of my remote locations that will eventually have a VPN tunnel (does not currently), what DC configuration is recommended? As i start the server install, I'm given 3 options, new domain, an additional domain (i.e. headquarters.microsoft.com) or a domain in a different tree? ThanksNick

That is tricky. Ideally it should be an additional DC in your existing domain, but you cannot set it up that way without a network link to the existing domain. I would not do it beforethe VPN link is available. You can set it up at headquarters and get it running as an additional DC and get it all working. Then change its IP to the branch subnet, shut it down and move it to the new site.Bill