I'm facing a bit of a predicament here. I've got a very old Domain Controller running on Windows Server 2008, and I'm trying to upgrade to Server 2025. However, I keep reading that I need to install a temporary Server 2012 first because the current forest functional level is too low. It seems like the 2008 functional level is maxed out. Is it really necessary to set up a temporary server before I can make the jump? Just to clarify, this is for a client, and while I've made mistakes in the past, I can't take the blame for having to deal with a nearly 20-year-old DC.
5 Answers
I had a similar issue and ended up needing to create a new domain controller with an intermediate version. Just make sure to handle the replication carefully and take backups along the way. It might feel tedious, but it's worth the stability.
It's a tough spot when you're stuck with such outdated technology. Setting up a new DC is indeed your best bet. Get everything working smoothly before you think about transitioning to the next version, especially coming from such an old setup.
You will need to upgrade to at least Server 2012 R2 first, and yes, you'll have to move from FRS to DFS replication in the process. It's going to take some time, but that's the safest route. Don't forget that Server 2025 is still pretty rough around the edges.
Yes, you're going to have to set up a temporary server. When you're dealing with such an outdated operating system, there's really no way around it. The jump from 2008 to 2025 is just too big, and you really can't skip versions like that.
You can only upgrade two generations at a time, and honestly, Server 2025 is a bit of a mess right now. It's probably better to stick with Server 2022 for the moment. You're going to face a long upgrade process with multiple intermediary steps.
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