Using Systems Management Server to Ease Domain Consolidation and Migration

In the past, larger organizations have often had multiple domains. With Windows 2000, the reasons for those domains will most likely disappear, and therefore, consolidating them will simplify computer administration. Migrating to native Windows 2000 domains allows your organization to take full advantage of Windows 2000 features.

The chapter "Determining Domain Migration Strategies" in this book discusses the issues of domain consolidation and migration in detail. It also details strategies and techniques that will ease the process of consolidation and migration. SMS can help with this process, and thus Windows 2000 deployment with SMS should be considered in conjunction with domain consolidation and migration. For example, you can use SMS to deliver scripted executions of the DCPromo portion of the upgrade process for domain controllers.

The most significant benefit of using SMS for domain consolidation and migration occurs during deployment of the upgrade to Windows 2000. By adjusting the JoinDomain value in the answer file, the computers can be put in the new, consolidated domain.