promoting a server

[Linda]

I am setting up a new Win 2000 server in a new branch office.
I am confused on how I should name it when I dcpromo because I am not sure
how that name ties into DNS and Active Directory. They will probably later
have a Win 2000 in the main office and the two will be connected through a
high speed WAN for file transfers.
They currently have a registered domain name. Such as company.com.
If I dcpromo the server and use company.com for the root domain and then
they add a server to the main office it would have to be office.company.com
would it not because of the link?
I read something about how you should not use company.com (the registered
domain name) but rather company.local for naming and then I guess add a
record for branch.company.com and later one for office.company.com
Can you add a record for a .com under a root that is a .local?
I have been trying to find a white paper are article that explains the best
practice for this and have found only bits and pieces.
Any advise or any links so that I can read up on the subject?
Thanks,
Linda

 

[btm]

Hi Linda

Does this server need to be a DC? If not I would
integrate it into your current (NT4?) domain structure or
have it standalone. I would recommend a detailed
planning and migration strategy before creating your
first W2K DC.
Here is a link for planning your namespace that may help:
http://www.microsoft.com/windows2000/en/server/help/defaul
t.asp?
url=/windows2000/en/server/help/sag_DNS_imp_NamespacePlann
ing.htm