I need to move AD off an Exchange 2003 installation server to better the restart times and make disaster recovery easier. Knowning that having AD on the same server as Exchangepresents a few problems. Arethere any special steps required to move AD offa server that has Exchange 2003 installed?TIA

Stop! Don't run DCPromo to demote/promote AD while Exchange 2003 is sitting on same server, it will break Exchange functionality. Why don't you move Exchange to another box?Amit Tank | MVP Exchange Server | MCITP: EMA | MCSA: M | http://ExchangeShare.WordPress.com

Agree with Amit, assuming this is not an SBS box? Install Exchange 2003 on another server, move mailboxes, replicate pf's, etc. Then follow http://www.msexchange.org/tutorials/Removing-First-Exchange-2003-Server-Part1.html. Once completed, then remove Exchange 2003 from DC and reboot. Once rebooted you can run DCPROMO to remove AD off the server. Now if you want Exchange back on this server you will follow the steps I just outlined for moving mailboxes, replicate pf's, etc. again.MVP Exchange Server

Thank you for the quick response. I will go down the path of moving. I attempted to go through a DR scenario ( using a different server) and found exchange would not come backup. I can only guess it was becuase the AD and Exchange are on the same system. I will begin the task of moving exchange and once done try the DR scenario again.-OR-Do you know of any specific steps that are required when exchange and AD are on the same box?

I do not know what DR scenario you went through so I cannot comment on why it did not work. As for your second question, not sure what you are asking here? Exchange recovery when installed on a DC?MVP Exchange Server