So I need to restructure the partitions on my primary controller, which means reinstalling server 2008. I need to make my backup controller the primary for the duration of this process. I know I need to transfer the PID, RID, and Infrastructure over to the backup using the operations masters function. Is there anything else I need to do before I take the primary down? Once I have it back up, is is essentially just the same process in reverse? The primary runs DNS, DHCP, File Services (for backups, which will be restored after reinstalling), Windows Deployment Services, and Network Policy and Access Services (for VPN access). The backup only runs DNS and DHCP. Both run Windows Server 2008 R2.

Hi, There should be no problem. Meanwhile, here is an article which might be helpful for you. It’s for Windows Server 2003 but the process is similar to Windows Server 2008. http://support.microsoft.com/kb/555549 Regards, Bruce This posting is provided "AS IS" with no warranties, and confers no rights. Please remember to click "Mark as Answer" on the post that helps you, and to click "Unmark as Answer" if a marked post does not actually answer your question. This can be beneficial to other community members reading the thread.

Hello, make the second DC also Global catalog server and do not forget to configure all domain machines with the correct DNS server on the NIC. Keep in mind that using a DC for other roles is not recommended, especially services/roles that require additional ip addresses or multiple NICs is not recommended for DCs as this result in so called multihoming which result in multiple problems. A DC should always do its basic job, AD/DNS/GC and maybe DHCP(with enhanced security) and that's it. All other services roles should always run on member servers.Best regards Meinolf Weber Disclaimer: This posting is provided "AS IS" with no warranties or guarantees , and confers no rights.

It's a small network. Small enough that both DC's operate GC's without any performance problems. The primary and backup DC's are the only servers we have. Thanks for the info, it looks like everything's in order.