We currently have a Exchange 2003 server setup on a Windows Server 2003 small business server. Domain controller is running on the same computer.

I have setup a VCenter infrastructure and have created a new network with two VMs running Windows 2012 (Exchange 2013 & Domain)

The current exchange server is live and running with about 30 users.

What is the best route to continue using the existing Domain name?

I want to archive all eixistng mail boxes and start fresh with the exchange 2013 server.

• Edited by Samer1221 Monday, June 15, 2015 5:41 PM
• Moved by Jason Johnston [MSFT]Microsoft employee Monday, June 15, 2015 6:12 PM Not a development question.

Apart from above given suggestions, I would like to refer you on this informative article that seems to be a good approach while dealing in such circumstance to move from Small Organization from Exchange 2003 to Exchange 2013 : http://www.msexchange.org/articles-tutorials/exchange-server-2013/migration-deployment/planning-and-migrating-small-organization-exchange-2003-exchange-2013-part1.html

Moreover, while need to migrate users mailboxes from Exchange 2003 to 2013, you may also consider on this available automated solution(http://www.exchangemailboxmigration.com/ ) that could be a good alternative solution for you.

Hi,

As Ed said, you cant upgrade directly from exchange 2003 to 2013. You have to install exchange 2010  as a transitional plan.

You should install a new DC and install exchange 2010, migrate all mailboxes and remove Exchange 2003 , then install Exchange 2013 and again migrate the users and remove Exchange 2010.

About your question, you can have a look at the following articles:

Install Exchange 2010 in an Existing Exchange 2003 Organization  https://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/library/dd638130(v=exchg.140).aspx

Remove the Last Legacy Exchange Server from an Exchange 2010 Organization http://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/library/gg576862.aspx  

Upgrade from Exchange 2010 to Exchange 2013 https://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/library/jj898583(v=exchg.150).aspx

Best Regards,

David