Checklist: Performing an upgrade

Applies To: Windows Server 2003, Windows Server 2003 R2, Windows Server 2003 with SP1, Windows Server 2003 with SP2

Checklist: Performing an upgrade

Step	Reference
Check system requirements.	System Requirements and Hardware Compatibility
Read Relnotes.htm and hardware compatibility information.	Important files to review Hardware compatibility
Determine whether your current operating system is one from which you can upgrade to Windows Server 2003.	Upgrading or Installing
If you have server clusters, review the choices for upgrading on cluster nodes.	Upgrading to Windows Server 2003, Enterprise Edition, and Windows Server 2003, Datacenter Edition on Cluster Nodes Checklist: Preparation for upgrading a cluster
For upgrades in any domain where all domain controllers run Windows NT 4.0, review the upgrade plan.	Upgrades in a Windows NT 4.0 Domain
Decide whether to upgrade any FAT or FAT32 partitions to NTFS.	Choosing a File System for the Installation Partition
Check the system log for errors that could cause problems during the upgrade.	Preparing your system for an upgrade
Back up files.	Preparing your system for an upgrade
If upgrading from Windows NT 4.0, prepare mirror sets or other disk sets for upgrade.	Working with volume, mirror, or stripe sets or stripe sets with parity
Disconnect UPS devices.	Preparing your system for an upgrade
Review hardware and software.	Preparing your system for an upgrade
Start Setup, and follow the instructions provided.	Start Setup on an x86-based computer Start Setup on an Itanium architecture-based computer Start Setup on an x64-based computer
If domain controller upgrades are complete, review concepts about domain functional levels and, if appropriate, raise the functional level.	Domain and forest functionality Upgrading from a Windows NT domain