Switching File Server

amagab · 02-13-2007, 10:23 AM

We are changing our file server and I need some pointers/help.

Our current file server is an Apple Xserve with the IP 192.168.123.1 and that server has a shared drive with folders for all users.

Our new file server is a Dell running Windows 2003 with the IP 192.168.123.30 and there is nothing on that server at this moment.

Each user has their shared folder mapped on their desktop/laptop.

What would be the best way to move all the folders/files from one server to another, keep the mapping, and IP address? I practically want a seamless transition.

Many Thanks!

crazijoe · 02-13-2007, 11:08 AM

Best way would be to:

Create a backup of all shared folders.
Shut down the Xserve.
Delete the Xserve's account in AD.
Rename the new Dell server the same name as the Xserve and give it the same IP as the Xserve.
Join the Dell server to the domain.
Restore the data onto the same drive letter that they were as they were on the old Xserve.

Doing a backup will keep all permissions on the files and folders. Copying files will not.
Moving files and folders will hold permissions also but I usually like the safety net of doing a backup.

02-13-2007, 10:23 AM	#1 (permalink)
amagab Registered User Join Date: Oct 2006 Posts: 56 OS: XP and OSX	Switching File Server We are changing our file server and I need some pointers/help. Our current file server is an Apple Xserve with the IP 192.168.123.1 and that server has a shared drive with folders for all users. Our new file server is a Dell running Windows 2003 with the IP 192.168.123.30 and there is nothing on that server at this moment. Each user has their shared folder mapped on their desktop/laptop. What would be the best way to move all the folders/files from one server to another, keep the mapping, and IP address? I practically want a seamless transition. Many Thanks!

02-13-2007, 11:08 AM	#2 (permalink)
crazijoe Registered User Join Date: Oct 2004 Location: Omaha, The Center of the Universe Posts: 7,632 OS: WinXP, Win2K3 My System	Best way would be to: Create a backup of all shared folders. Shut down the Xserve. Delete the Xserve's account in AD. Rename the new Dell server the same name as the Xserve and give it the same IP as the Xserve. Join the Dell server to the domain. Restore the data onto the same drive letter that they were as they were on the old Xserve. Doing a backup will keep all permissions on the files and folders. Copying files will not. Moving files and folders will hold permissions also but I usually like the safety net of doing a backup. __________________ Microsoft MCSA + Messaging, MVP, A+, Network+ http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b3...other/Help.jpg Do you want a real Republican? HDD diagnostic tools / HDD data recovery software