RE: exchange migration question (remote move/Hybrid) correct order

dirkdigs 921 Reputation points
2021-11-24T19:59:09.633+00:00

just wanted to confirm that i have the correct order of operations for migrating user mailbox to office . (Exchange online) (Remote Move / Hybrid)

1 - Add custom domain to office 365 and enable security defaults
2 - Setup Exchange hybrid connector
3 - Change MX records to point to Office 365
4 - Create batch jobs and migrate data (95%)
5 - Perform Final cutover and verify mail flow.
6 - Decom Exchange server

At what step does it make the most sense to configure Azure AD Connect/ DirSync? Before or After i run the hybrid configuration wizard?

Microsoft Exchange Hybrid Management
Microsoft Exchange Hybrid Management
Microsoft Exchange: Microsoft messaging and collaboration software.Hybrid Management: Organizing, handling, directing or controlling hybrid deployments.
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  1. Andy David - MVP 152K Reputation points MVP
    2021-11-24T20:07:46.167+00:00

    I would install AADConnect before setting up hybrid ( and after Step1 of course.)

    Note , if using AADConnect, you can not Decomm Exchange to be supported at this point.
    You need at least one Exchange Server on-prem for mgmt

    https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/exchange/decommission-on-premises-exchange

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  1. dirkdigs 921 Reputation points
    2021-11-24T20:17:14.773+00:00

    we don't need exchange management we will manage everything form cloud . so should be ok to turn off exchange servers?
    i mean everything will still work . don't see any reason to keep exchange if we manage from cloud. I've done this for a few other migrations and no issues.

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  2. Andy David - MVP 152K Reputation points MVP
    2021-11-24T20:20:30.643+00:00

    As long as you are syncing from on-prem - to be supported - you need at least one Exchange Server.

    Note the key words: To be supported :)

    yes, you can manage via ADUC or ADSIEDIT instead and it will still work, but not supported.

    https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/exchange/decommission-on-premises-exchange#why-you-may-not-want-to-decommission-exchange-servers-from-on-premises

    152402-image.png

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  3. dirkdigs 921 Reputation points
    2021-11-24T20:23:30.977+00:00

    yes we've discussed this before lol ..a few times

    thanks @Andy David - MVP


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