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Do all my servers have to be the same version?

jim 20 Reputation points
2023-11-28T21:14:41.5+00:00

Hi all, just a quick question. If I upgrade my DNS server to windows server 2022, will I also have to upgrade my app servers from windows server 2012?

Windows for business | Windows Server | User experience | Other
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Anonymous
2023-11-28T22:06:20.4333333+00:00

No, you do not. You just couldn't raise the domain functional level higher than 2012. (assumes the other DCs are 2012?)

https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/windows-server/identity/ad-ds/active-directory-functional-levels

The two prerequisites to introducing the first 2019 or 2022 domain controller are that domain functional level needs to be 2008 or higher and older sysvol FRS replication needs to have been migrated to DFSR

I'd use dcdiag / repadmin tools to verify health correcting all errors found before starting any operations. Then stand up the new 2019 or 2022, patch it fully, license it, join existing domain, add active directory domain services, promote it also making it a GC (recommended), transfer FSMO roles over (optional), transfer pdc emulator role (optional), use dcdiag / repadmin tools to again verify health, when all is good you can decommission / demote old one.

--please don't forget to upvote and Accept as answer if the reply is helpful--

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  1. Reza-Ameri 45,821 Reputation points Volunteer Moderator
    2023-11-28T21:53:39.41+00:00

    Normally, they should communicate without problem. However, it is recommended to upgrade Windows Server to the latest version.

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