Restoing a virtual domain controller

[irsprint84]

In theroy if your main domain controller (with roles) or backup domain controller (without roles) went down could you restore it from a VM Image or is it not advisable in both cases?

[Duke]

I can't remember the exact details but you have to be really careful with this - the same rules apply to a DC regardless of whether it's physical or virtual. I think you need to start up the server in directory services restore mode and make sure it's a non-authoritative restore otherwise replication will happen the wrong way around (i.e. old data overwriting new) and you'll get lots of replication errors. Definitely one to consult the MS docs on:

 

Backup and Restore Considerations for Virtualized Domain Controllers

 

Performing a Nonauthoritative Restore of a Domain Controller: Active Directory

 

Chris