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Target Server Considerations

This topic lists the requirements for the target servers where you want to restore the domain controllers for performing a forest recovery. See the Recover a Forest topic for additional information.

Remember, target server refers to a server where you intent to restore a domain controller.

Target Server and Operating System Requirements​

Consider the following when restoring domain controllers.

  • The target servers must be isolated from the environment in such a way that they cannot name-resolve the domain that is restored. The process of restoring a domain will fail if the server is able to see that a domain of that name already exists. Typically, DNS in the target environment used for forest recovery should be configured in a way that allows each server in that environment to see each other.
  • The target server must be a base installation of the Windows Server operating system (OS).
  • The target server OS version should be the same version as the source domain controllers from which the backups were created. For example, a backup from a Windows Server 2022 domain controller would need to be restored to a Windows Server 2022 target server.
  • While restoring a domain controller, things such as the ADDS role and configuration are done with the product, so there is no requirement to have those in place.

When the Target Server is a Virtual Machine​

Following are some considerations when the target server is a virtual machine.

  • Memory and storage configuration for the virtual machine should match the hardware configuration of the domain controller where the backup was performed.
  • The virtual machine should be in an isolated environment (i.e., should not be able to contact the source forest or domains).
  • The virtual machines should allow File and Print Sharing through the firewall as well as Remote Management, if possible.

Network Bandwidth Requirement for the Restore Operation​

Network bandwidth should be as fast as available but can operate efficiently with 100 Mbps. Slower bandwidth will result in a longer setup stage for the restore as the backup container has to be copied to the target server.