Are there any Schema Classes or attributes that have deprecated from Windows Server 2003 to Windows Server 2016

Garima Das 1,041 Reputation points
2024-05-23T13:49:34.73+00:00

Hi Everyone,

I have to perform an FFL upgrade from Windows Server 2003 to Windows Server 2016 and a DFL upgrade from Windows Server 2008 to Windows Server 2016. Below are my questions:

  1. Can I directly perform the upgrade of DFL from Windows Server 2008 to Windows Server 2016?
  2. Can I directly perform the upgrade of FFL from Windows Server 2003 to Windows Server 2016?
  3. Are there any Schema classes or attributes that have been deprecated that might affect the DFL/FFL upgrade?
  4. Is the FFL/DFL upgrade reversible?

Thanks.

Active Directory
Active Directory
A set of directory-based technologies included in Windows Server.
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  1. Jing Zhou 3,660 Reputation points Microsoft Vendor
    2024-05-24T08:16:50.7133333+00:00

    Hello,

    Thank you for posting in Q&A forum.

    There are some important considerations when upgrading the Functional Level (FFL) and Domain Level (DFL) in Windows Server. Here is the answer to your question:

    Can I directly perform the upgrade of DFL from Windows Server 2008 to Windows Server 2016?

    Yes, you can directly upgrade DFL from Windows Server 2008 to Windows Server 2016. In Active Directory users and computers, you can perform this operation through the "Domain Functional Level" option in the "Domain and Trust" attribute of Active Directory users and computers.

    Can I directly perform the upgrade of FFL from Windows Server 2003 to Windows Server 2016?

    It is not possible to directly upgrade FFL from Windows Server 2003 to Windows Server 2016. You need to upgrade FFL to Windows Server 2008 or higher before upgrading to Windows Server 2016. Gradual upgrading can ensure the stability and compatibility of the system.

    Are there any Schema classes or attributes that have been deprecated that might affect the DFL/FFL upgrade?

    Before upgrading to DFL/FFL, it is recommended to conduct a thorough architecture evaluation to ensure that no discarded architecture classes or properties will affect the upgrade. You can use the Active Directory Status Services (AD DS) tool to detect and resolve potential issues.

    Is the FFL/DFL upgrade reversible?

    FFL/DFL upgrades are usually irreversible. Once upgraded to a new functional level, it is usually not possible to revert back to the old functional level.

    Before any FFL/DFL upgrade, please make sure to back up key data. Wishing you a smooth upgrade process! If you have any other questions, please feel free to let me know.

    Best regards,

    Jill Zhou


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