single domain, 2 controllers, both hold DNS and GC...need to replace one...can anyone give me some documentation as far as keeping the same name and IP addr..2003 server standardThx Steven J Einhorn

This is a fairly simple process. For the DC that will be replaced, transfer any FSMO roles to the other DC, then run DCPROMO and demote this computer. After it has been shut down, delete the computer object from the domain (which by then will just be a regular computer object). After you have allowed replication to occur, install Windows on the new server, join it to the domain and run DCPROMO. If you have any network services such as DNS or DHCP running on the DC you want to demote, keep in mind that if you do not have these services running on another box that your clients are currently using, then you may have to plan for that as well.This is the exact procedure that I have used for many years now on all versions of Active Directory.If you fear that the demotion process may not go smoothly (which has happened to me in the past once or twice), there is a process to force the removal of the object and its related attributes from the domain.http://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/library/cc781245(WS.10).aspx Visit my blog: anITKB.com, an IT Knowledge Base.

Hello, Thank for your post here. Jorge it right. It is a simple process to replace a DC especially when there is multiple DCs in the domain. You may refer to the KB 555549 to perform the replacement process. You should move all aspects that is described in KB 555549 to another DC and demote the stale DC safely. How to replace single domain controller in domain with a single domain controller? http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx/kb/555549 If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to let me know.

Thanks to both of you.....and i can keep the server name & Ip address the same. after shutting down the old box of course.....????Steven J Einhorn

Yes-- but read my post once again. You have to make sure that all objects related to that server have been removed from the domain. Once you demote that server, you'll know if there is a problem. If the demotion runs without any errors, simply restart the server. Then retire it accordingly be removing it from the domain. After replication has occurred and AD no longer has any ties to that server, bring up the new box with the same name and IP, join it, then promote it.That's it!

Ok,,Thanks JorgeSteven J Einhorn