I'm currently managing several domain controllers on Windows Server 2016, and I'm planning to upgrade to Windows Server 2022 using new hardware. My goal is to eventually retire the old servers, and all the domain controllers are within the same domain and forest. Could someone give me an idea of what a reasonable cost would be if I were to hire a managed service provider (MSP) for this upgrade?
5 Answers
Honestly, you could do it yourself! Just set up the new servers alongside the old ones, then get someone to help you transition the FSMO roles when you’re ready. It’s not as complicated as it sounds, especially if your AD environment is well-configured.
I recently went through an upgrade like this. I transferred the FSMO roles to a new server and made sure to sync everything first. The changes I had to make were pretty straightforward, but depending on your existing setup, costs can vary. If the MSP charges a lot, it might be worth considering doing it yourself first.
For a simple job like this, I’d estimate between $3,000 and $5,000, but make sure to get multiple quotes. Some MSPs can try to upsell you on services you don't really need.
In-place upgrades can work, but I often suggest fresh installations for new DCs. This typically takes about 10-20 hours of work, and if you hire someone at $165 to $200/hour, you're looking at around $3,000 to $7,000. Just be sure not to have any unnecessary applications running on your DC.
The cost really varies based on your setup. Generally, expect between $5,000 to $10,000. But if you hire a big consultancy like Accenture, it could go even higher!
Is that total for the entire project or per domain controller?
That sounds like a solid plan! Just ensure you have backups and take your time.