Checklist: Preupgrade Tasks

Applies To: Windows Server 2008, Windows Server 2008 R2

Complete the tasks in this checklist in the order in which they are presented. If a reference link takes you to a conceptual topic, return to this checklist after you review the conceptual topic so that you can proceed with the remaining tasks.

Checklist: Preupgrade Tasks

  Task Reference

Assign appropriate credentials to the users who are responsible for preparing the forest and domain for an Active Directory upgrade.

Assign Appropriate Credentials

Introduce a newly installed member server into the forest.

Introduce a Member Server That Runs Windows Server 2008 or Windows Server 2008 R2

Identify the editions of Windows 2000 or Windows Server 2003 that are running in your environment. Then determine if you can upgrade these editions or if you must perform a complete reinstallation for each.

Determine Supported Software Upgrades

Review and document the existing hardware configuration of each domain controller that you plan to upgrade.

Assess Hardware Requirements

Determine the order in which you will upgrade your domain controllers before you begin the domain upgrade process.

Determine Domain Controller Upgrade Order

Develop a test plan for your domain upgrade process.

Develop a Test Plan for Your Domain Upgrade Process

Determine service pack levels.

Determine Service Pack Levels

Back up your Windows 2000 or Windows Server 2003 domain data before you begin the upgrade.

Back Up Domain Data

Resolve upgrade and application compatibility problems.

Resolve Upgrade and Application Compatibility Problems