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21 Jan

Tech Tips Jan 2010

Migration Path: Small Business Server 2008

With the limited availability of “Down Time” in this technology dependent world, how do you upgrade old equipment, old software, or even old operating systems, without disrupting the client’s ability to work? In the past, the limitations of migrations for a Windows Small Business Server 2003 were limited to creating new separate Domain Controller Servers, new Exchange Email Servers, new Application Servers, and then having to piece all of the data back together.

Lo and behold: Enter Windows Small Business Server 2008. Microsoft has now created the Migration Mode install, which will allow a complete server to server migration of the Small Business Server. After installing the new server software, the multiple Migration “Wizards” take you through each level of transfer, to ensure that all necessary data is smoothly transitioned.

Did I mention that while this is going on, users can still work? Since it is a staged step-by-step transition, only sections of data are being moved at one time. The system creates virtual “connectors” so both servers become online at the same time.

1. After the new server is installed in “Migration Mode”, the Active Directory Schema is copied to the server (Domain information) including the same Domain Name and structure, users, computer accounts, security groups, etc.

2. Then users folders (redirection) are moved.

3. Network File Shares are moved.

4. Exchange Mailboxes are moved.

Pretty simply; a smooth transfer of information from server to server. There are some backend modifications that need to be done by the Administrator to facilitate this migration, but it is all done in stages on both the old server and the new server.

Microsoft also allows the old server to remain ACTIVE for 21 days, in order to ensure that all settings and data are moved and working successfully. Then, and only then, does the “decommission” begin on the old server. This will include, removing the server as a Domain controller from the network, removing all file shares from being accessible, removing all shared printers, and then finally removing the First Organizational Group (Exchange Server).

The Windows Small Business Server 2008 operating systems have numerous advantages for smaller businesses:

1- Utilizes the capabilities of multiple servers, usually seen in larger businesses, in an “all-in-one solution”.

2- Reduces electrical consumption of multiple servers.

3- Exchange Server 2007 integrated into the server.

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