How to Demote a Domain Controller in Windows Server 2016
Domain controllers are essential to the infrastructure of any Windows Server-based network, but sometimes they can become a problem. In some cases, the domain controller may become outdated, or it may be necessary to move the domain controller to a different physical location. In these cases, it is necessary to demote the domain controller so that the domain controller can be removed from the network. This article will explain how to demote a domain controller in Windows Server 2016.
Before starting the demotion process, it is important to make sure that all of the necessary backups have been completed. This includes backing up the Active Directory database, the system state, and the DNS database. It is also important to make sure that all other domain controllers are up to date and running the latest version of the operating system.
Once all of the backups have been completed, the demotion process can begin. To begin the demotion process, open the Server Manager console and select Add Roles and Features. Once the wizard has opened, select the Active Directory Domain Services role and click Next. On the next page, select the Remove Features option and click Next.
On the next page, select Demote this domain controller and click Next. On the next page, you will be asked to choose the operations master roles that you would like to transfer to another domain controller. It is important to note that the roles must be transferred to another domain controller before the demotion process can be completed. After selecting the operations master roles, click Next.
On the next page, you will be asked to select the Replication tab. On this page, you will need to select the Demote this domain controller option and click Next. On the next page, you will be asked to confirm the demotion process. Click Yes to continue.
Once the demotion process has been completed, the domain controller will no longer be a part of the domain. You should now be able to remove the domain controller from the network. It is important to note that if the domain controller was the primary domain controller, you will need to make sure that another domain controller is promoted to take its place.
In conclusion, demoting a domain controller in Windows Server 2016 is a fairly straightforward process. However, it is important to make sure that all of the necessary backups have been completed before beginning the demotion process. Additionally, it is important to make sure that all of the necessary operations master roles have been transferred to another domain controller before the demotion process can be completed. Once the demotion process has been completed, the domain controller can be safely removed from the network