How to Demote a Domain Controller in Windows Server 2016
Demoting a domain controller is a process used to remove a domain controller from an existing active directory domain. This process is often used to migrate an existing domain controller to a new server or when replacing an older server with a newer one. This article will discuss the steps required to demote a domain controller in Windows Server 2016.
Before starting, it is important to ensure that the domain controller is no longer needed as a domain controller and that all necessary data and services have been migrated to another domain controller.
Step 1: Log in to the domain controller using an account with domain admin privileges.
Step 2: Open the Server Manager and click on the Tools menu.
Step 3: Scroll down and select the Active Directory Domain Services option.
Step 4: Select the option to demote the domain controller.
Step 5: Follow the instructions on the wizard to complete the demotion process.
Step 6: After the wizard is completed, the domain controller will be removed from the Active Directory domain.
Step 7: If necessary, configure the server to be used as a member server or as a stand-alone server.
Once the domain controller is removed from the domain, it is important to ensure that it is properly removed from the domain by using the appropriate commands. To remove the domain controller from the domain, open a command prompt window and type in the following command:
Netdom remove
This command will remove the domain controller from the domain. It is important to note that all data stored on the domain controller will be removed as well.
It is also important to note that when demoting a domain controller, the domain controller will no longer be able to provide authentication services such as user logins and password resets. Additionally, if the domain controller is used as a Global Catalog Server, it will no longer provide global catalog services as well.
By following the steps outlined in this article, demoting a domain controller in Windows Server 2016 is a relatively straightforward process. However, it is important to ensure that all necessary data and services have been migrated to another domain controller prior to beginning the demotion process. Additionally, it is important to ensure that the domain controller is properly removed from the domain by using the appropriate commands. By following these steps, the demotion process can be completed without any major issues