I'm just starting out with networking and have been tasked with setting up a domain controller (DC) and a backup domain controller (BDC). I've managed to create the primary DC, but I'm having trouble getting the backup DC to recognize it. It can't even ping the primary DC, and I'm confused about the subnet connections. I believe I'm using AWS Managed Microsoft AD with a Windows Server 2022 base. Can anyone help me figure this out?
3 Answers
Definitely check your VPC and subnet configurations. Each DC needs to be able to communicate over the network. If you're using AWS, ensure that security groups aren't blocking the necessary ports and protocols you need for DC communication. Often, the default VPC settings can lead to problems, so that may be worth reviewing too.
It sounds like you might be running into some confusion with the terminology. PDC and BDC are terms from older systems—modern setups are often simpler. Make sure your primary DC is fully operational before connecting the backup. You’ll need to confirm that both instances are in a VPC with properly connected subnets and that their security groups allow needed traffic. You can use ICMP to ensure they can ping each other before worrying about domain recognition.
Are you using AWS Managed Microsoft AD? That might explain some of the issues you're having with connectivity between your DCs. Make sure the instances are in the right VPC and that you're allowing traffic through the security groups to permit the necessary communications.
Yeah, I think it's set up for AWS Managed Microsoft AD, but I'm not sure about the network settings.