Active Directory Windows Server 2012 to Windows Server 2019 Migration

Here is a high-level step-by-step guide to migrating an Active Directory from Windows Server 2012 to Windows Server 2019:

1. Prepare the Environment:

• Install and configure necessary updates and service packs on the source and target servers.
• Make sure both servers are members of the same domain.
• Backup the AD database and system state from the source server.
• Verify that all FSMO roles are hosted on the source server.

2. Deploy a new Windows Server 2019 as a Member Server:

• Join the new server to the existing domain as a member server.
• Install the Active Directory Domain Services role on the new server.
• Promote the new server to a Domain Controller using the AD DS Configuration Wizard.

3. Transfer FSMO Roles:

• Open the Active Directory Users and Computers snap-in.
• Right-click the domain name and select Operations Masters.
• Transfer all FSMO roles to the new server.

4. Create a New Forest:

• Run the Active Directory Domains and Trusts snap-in.
• Right-click the Active Directory Domains and Trusts node and select Properties.
• Click the “Change” button next to the Primary Domain Controller.
• Enter the name of the new server and click OK.

5. Replicate the AD Database:

• Start the AD DS Configuration Wizard on the new server.
• Use the “Replicate from Media” option and point it to the backup of the AD database.
• Follow the prompts to complete the replication process.

6. Test and Validate:

• Verify that all AD objects, users, groups, and policies have been replicated to the new server.
• Test authentication, authorization, and GPO processing to ensure everything is working correctly.
• If necessary, update DNS settings to point to the new server.
• Demote the Source Server:

Once you’ve confirmed that everything is working correctly, you can demote the source server and remove it from the network.

Taking Backup of the Source Active Directory Server before Migration

The Migration Prerequisite Check before Starting Migration: