Migrating SYSVOL to DFS replication (Part 1)

The Sysvol folder on a domain controller contains the following items:

• NetLogon shares: These typically host logon scripts and policy objects for network client computers.
• User logon scripts for domains where the administrator uses for Active Directory Users and Computers
• Windows Group Policy

If the domain functional level is Windows Server 2008 in a new domain, the servers use DFS replication for SYSVOL replication.

If the domain functional level is Windows Server 2003 (or below), the servers use FRS for SYSVOL replicaton.

After the domain controller is upgraded the domain functional level to Windows Server 2008, it can migrate to use DFS replication.

Verify the replication type
1. At Domain Controller, log in as Domain Administrator.
2. Click "Start", enter "adsiedit.msc".
3. Right-click "ADSI Edit", select "Connect to".
4. Next to "Select a well known Naming Context", select "Default naming context".



Figure 1: Default Naming Context

5. Click "OK".

6. Expand "Default Naming Context > <Domain Name> > CN=System > CN=File Replication Service"

Figure 2: File Replication Service

Now, it is using File Replication Service for SYSVOL replication

Prerequisites

All domain controllers have to be upgraded the domain functional level to Windows Server 2008 or above.

Full replication for Active Directory Partition should be forced before performing the migration.

1. At Domain Controller, log in as Domain Administrator.

2. Launch "Command Prompt", enter "repadmin /syncall Aed"

3. Enter "repadmin /syncall /AedP"

Figure 3: Replicate all partitions in the domain

Remark: You have to perform this commands in all domain controller.

Remark: "repadmin /syncall /Aed" is used to pulling the replication from other domain controllers.

This posting is provided “AS IS” with no warranties, and confers no rights!