Raising Domain Functional Level

[Juniorz]

Hello,

 

Im looking into the process of raising the domain function level to windows 2008 (currently on 2003). this is due to a software requirement for a new system.

 

recently i demoted a file server running 2003 as a domain controller. however this also acts as the DHCP for the network.

 

At the moment i have 4 DC's all at 2008 R2.

 

my question is, would it be ok to raise the functional level to 2008 even though the DHCP is ran on a server running 2003?

 

Any help appreciated.

[Arthur]

would it be ok to raise the functional level to 2008 even though the DHCP is ran on a server running 2003?

Yes, if the Server 2003 DC is no longer a DC.

 

Understanding Active Directory Domain Services (AD DS) Functional Levels

 

Functional levels determine the available Active Directory Domain Services (AD DS) domain or forest capabilities. They also determine which Windows Server operating systems you can run on domain controllers in the domain or forest. However, functional levels do not affect which operating systems you can run on workstations and member servers that are joined to the domain or forest.

Edited October 27, 2014 by Arthur
Not fully awake :)

[Marshall_IT]

DHCP is a service, it is not required to be run on a DC.

So i think you're now fine to raise your functional level.

[FN-GM]

No. Not if you have a DC running Server 2003.

 

Understanding Active Directory Domain Services (AD DS) Functional Levels

 

He does say "At the moment i have 4 DC's all at 2008 R2. "

 

 

@Juniorz yes you can upgrade. If there is a 2003 DC it will stop you from upgrading anyway.

[Arthur]

@FN-GM. See edit.

[3s-gtech]

As your DCs are all 2008 R2, get the forest functional level up to the same point to enable the AD Recycle Bin - you never know when it might save your behind