Microsoft KB Archive/307304

= HOW TO: Remove Active Directory with the Dcpromo Tool in Windows 2000 =

PSS ID Number: 307304

Article Last Modified on 11/20/2003

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The information in this article applies to:


 * Microsoft Windows 2000 Server
 * Microsoft Windows 2000 Advanced Server
 * Microsoft Windows 2000 Datacenter Server

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This article was previously published under Q307304



IN THIS TASK

 * SUMMARY
 * ** How to Remove Active Directory
 * Troubleshooting
 * REFERENCES



SUMMARY
This article describes how to remove Active Directory from Windows 2000-based servers by using the Dcpromo.exe tool.

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How to Remove Active Directory
An administrator can use the Dcpromo.exe tool on an existing domain controller to remove Active Directory. This demotes the domain controller to a member server. If the domain controller is the last domain controller in the domain, the server becomes a standalone server.

To remove Active Directory from a server:
 * 1) Click Start, click Run, type dcpromo in the Open box, and then click OK to start the Active Directory Installation Wizard.
 * 2) Click Next.
 * 3) If the server is the last domain controller in the domain, select the check box, and then click Next.
 * 4) Type a user name and password with Enterprise Administrator permissions for the domain, and then click Next.
 * 5) Type and confirm the password for the Administrator account on the server, and then click Next.
 * 6) Click Next on the Summary page.
 * 7) Click Finish to remove Active Directory from the computer.

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Troubleshooting

 * If you remove Active Directory from all domain controllers in a domain, you also delete the directory database for the domain. The domain no longer exists. Computers that are joined to this domain can no longer log on to the domain or use domain services.
 * The Active Directory Wizard removes the shortcuts to Group Policy security settings for a member server or standalone server.

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