Windows 2003 SBS joining existing forest

[Daniel Lamarre]

We are currently joining a SBS 2003 to an existing forest. From what we understand, SBS server cannot be part of a domain without being a domain controller. Is this right? Are there any other ways to work around?

Right now, the server is joined to the existing domain, but it will restart at every (1) hour. There is a knowledge base reference on Microsoft's web site, but I want to see if anyone ever found a way around. (KB555087)

Any kind of help is welcomed !

Thanks for your time!

[Ghostrider]

No, SBS can be the only Domain... it's setup that way

[cluberti]

Not only does SBS have to be a DC, but it can't join a domain with other domain controllers either. If you want to add more DC's later, bye-bye SBS.

[Daniel Lamarre]

Alright we can just kill this thread, we're upgrading to Windows 2003 Standard Server.

I still don't get why it can't just join a domain

Thanks to those who replied!

[Ghostrider]

Small business server is just that... small business. it's meant for a max 75 users and one location, one Domain, it also includes Exchange and Outlook 2003 and was meant to be cheaper than full server.

[cluberti]

"I still don't get why it can't just join a domain"

You answered your own question - SBS is meant for a (very) small busines. Think of what you get in an SBS box, and what you actually pay for it, and it's very cost-effective. However, if you're getting too big for SBS, Microsoft no longer considers you a small business , and you'll need to pay the full price and use full standalone versions of the product. Basically, if you need more than one server, you're not a small busines to MS anymore .

[fizban2]

Microsoft worked it into the code for SBS that it cannot be brought into an exisitng domain/forest that is why it is setup as a DC and all in on e box,

[Marsden]

You can add all the member servers you like, even a secondary Domain Controller but everything is controlled by a single SBS box.

The first operations master role holders are assigned automatically when the first domain controller when a given domain is created. The two forest-level roles (schema master and domain naming master) are assigned to the first domain controller created in a forest. Technically that is why SBS cannot join another forest or domain.

Edited November 1, 2005 by Marsden