Building a new Domain, Should I go 2012

[zag]

I'm just starting the process of upgrading our Windows 2003 domain controllers. I've been putting it off for too long

 

So should I go with Windows 2012 or stick with 2008 R2 for the new domain controllers?

 

We will be using Windows 7 for the next 5 years probably.

 

All our other servers are virutalized on 2008R2, should I virtualize the domain controller as well?

[cpjitservices]

I believe (I could be wrong) if you go to get licensing now for 2008 you will get 2012 keys anyway that will downgrade so you could go to 2012.

 

2008R2 is going to be long supported yet anyway, Personally I'd stick with 2012 as I haven't tested 2012.

[Grey-gear]

I have heard from people I work with is that Windows server 2012 easy to uses but it may be best to look up the benifits. I know there are a lot of people put demos of Windows server 2012 but I would go with Windows server 2012 if it was me

[sonofsanta]

May as well go 2012 I suppose (yes, I've changed my tune). It's running on a couple of servers here, and I still hate the interface, but it'll be supported longer (both for new features and security).

 

My primary DC is virtualized, works fine. Don't snapshot it for backups though, you'll ruin your AD if you restore from a snapshot; take system state instead. I have a physical DC as well so all my eggs are not in one basket (physical machine also runs SCVMM and, one day, SCOM).

[Michael]

If you're only going to be running 7 clients then go for 2008 R2 SP1. It's been out for ages and is tried and tested.

 

I'll probably re-visit 2012 once Windows 8.1 is released soon. I presume they'll be a 2012.1 as Microsoft did this for Windows 7 SP1 and Windows Server 2008 R2 SP1.

[3s-gtech]

Some rumours suggest it'll be Server 2012 R2. If that's the case, I'm definitely halting any more deployment of post Windows 7/Server 2008 R2 OSs, as I can't be bothered with upgrading only to still be on the back foot. I like Server 2012's features, but the interface makes me weep.

[Michael]

Server 2012 R2 is a possibility I agree. Once you've set up a 2012 or 2008 R2 Server, I do recommend installing RSAT on Win 7 or Win 8. Makes managing networks much easier from a workstation.