Replace exchange server

Question

Hello,

I have the following question.
One of my customer has a virus on there exchange 2016 server.
Instead of removing the old server i want to build a new exchange server next to it.

Is it possible to make a secondary exchange server and make it primary so i can delete the old one?
Or is there a better way to do it.

I want minimun down time for my customer

Answer 1

Hi @tim Bouw

Yes, it's better to clean up the virus firstly to avoid infecting other servers or clients in your domain. Is your current server still accessible and working normally?

If yes, you could simply install a new Exchange 2016 server in your environment then move the mailboxes from the old server to the new one. Then decomission the old server.
Here is a related link for your reference: Performing a Like for Like Exchange Server Migration
Please Note: Since the web site is not hosted by Microsoft, the link may change without notice. Microsoft does not guarantee the accuracy of this information.

Otherwise you could also consider Recover Exchange servers

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Answer 2

You can add multiple exchange server in same domain/exchange organization. The second one added can be configured in high availability mode to mailbox or client access. Adding in different subnet is not a matter, if there is network connectivity established properly.

Answer 3

Hi @tim Bouw ,

I think you could try remove this virus from the server. Have you tried it?

Here is the discussion about migrating to a new Exchange server.

https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/answers/questions/132513/migration-from-exchange-2016-cu3-to-exchange-2019.html

Answer 4

Thanks for all the info,

So if im correct i can just install exchange server on a new virtual machine and move the mailboxes from server.