Windows 11 22H2 Domain Joined and the minimum Domain Controllers domain and forest functional level supported by this operating system

Spyridon Kokolakis 25 Reputation points
2023-06-26T11:38:34.61+00:00

Hello MS Community ,

I am writing to seek clarification and guidance regarding the domain joining requirements and the minimum domain controllers domain and forest functional level supported by Windows 11 22H2.

Currently we planning an upgrade to Windows 11 22H2 for client machines.
Windows Server Domain Controllers environment with a domain and forest functional level of Windows Server 2008 is supported for this scenario ? .

To facilitate a smooth transition and avoid any potential compatibility issues, we kindly request your assistance in addressing the following:

What is the minimum domain functional level required for Windows 11 22H2 domain joining?

What is the minimum forest functional level required for Windows 11 22H2 domain joining?

Are there any specific considerations or limitations regarding the forest & domain functional level ?

Windows 11
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Accepted answer
  1. Dave Patrick 426.4K Reputation points MVP
    2023-09-14T01:14:26.2133333+00:00

    All of them are supported and should be no problem, but keep in mind you can't raise the domain functional level higher than the operating system of the lowest domain controller. You can read on here about features of different levels.

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

    --please don't forget to close up the thread here by marking answer if the reply is helpful--

    1 person found this answer helpful.

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  1. Dave Patrick 426.4K Reputation points MVP
    2023-06-26T14:51:05.0933333+00:00

    Some info here on DFL / FFL

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

    Kind of a vague question but there isn't a specific DFL, as long as the domain controller operating system is supported you should be fine.

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


  2. Spyridon Kokolakis 25 Reputation points
    2023-06-26T15:09:01.5133333+00:00

    What is the minimum domain functional level required for Windows 11 22H2 Client domain joining?

    What is the minimum forest functional level required for Windows 11 22H2 Client domain joining?

    Are there any specific considerations or limitations regarding the forest & domain functional level in order to join Windows 11 Clients ?

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  3. Limitless Technology 44,071 Reputation points
    2023-06-26T19:09:12.42+00:00

    Hello there,

    The limitations regarding the forest and domain functional levels in Windows Active Directory can vary depending on the specific functional level and the features available in the Active Directory version. Here are some general considerations and limitations:

    Compatibility: When raising the functional level to a newer version, ensure that all domain controllers in the domain or forest are running an operating system version that supports that functional level. Upgrading the functional level without updating all domain controllers can cause compatibility issues.

    Down-Level Domain Controllers: Once the functional level is raised to a higher version, it may prevent the addition of down-level domain controllers running older versions of Windows Server. This is because the newer functional levels introduce features and capabilities that are not supported by older operating systems.

    Feature Availability: Certain features and functionalities introduced in newer functional levels may not be available or fully supported when operating at lower functional levels. Raising the functional level allows the use of these advanced features and enhancements.

    Domain and Forest Trusts: The functional level of the domain or forest may impact the ability to establish trusts with other domains or forests. Some trust types may require a specific functional level to be in place.

    I used AI provided by ChatGPT to formulate part of this response. I have verified that the information is accurate before sharing it with you.

    Hope this resolves your Query !!

    --If the reply is helpful, please Upvote and Accept it as an answer–

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  4. Spyridon Kokolakis 25 Reputation points
    2023-06-27T08:28:18.55+00:00

    Hello But my question is about Windows 11 22H2 joining domain requirements and relevant minimum Domain & Forest Functional Level requirements that needed for this task

    If you need to join Windows 11 22H2 Client on Domain. what is the minimum

    • Domain Functional Level ?
    • Forest Functional Level ?

    Is there an specific minimum DFL or FFL to join Windows 11 Client or Not ?

    If my Domain DFL or FFL is Windows Server 2008 R2 or

    Windows Server 2008 it is OK to join New Windows 11 Clients 22H2 or Not ?