Remote site setup

[Flint]

I am installing a Sever in a remote site (approx 40 - 60 users). Remote
site is connected to main site via VPN. I want to setup the new server as a
DC. Which is the best option?

1) DC of main domain (i..e company.com). I believe a site would have to be
added with the appropriate subnet so the workstations authenticate against
the local domain. Also, how is DNS setup if I have 2 DC's already in the
main site (DNS is active directory integrated). What option do I select for
DNS setup?

2) Child domain of main (office1.company.com). Again, how is DNS setup in
this situation and what is the benefit.

We want a single point of administration and fall back if the DC goes down.
Any suggestions would be helpful.

Thanks.

 

[Cary Shultz [A.D. MVP]]

Flint,

I would generally suggest that you simply create a Site ( and naturally the
subnet and associate the subnet with the site ) for the 'other' location and
probably stick in a Domain Controller in that Site. This way, those 40-60
client workstations *should* authenticate against the Domain Controller in
the same Site and not against a Domain Controller over a WAN link.

I would generally suggest that you stay away from a child domain.

However, we would probably need more information. At face value it appears
to be a no brainer for the additional Site....

--
Cary W. Shultz
Roanoke, VA 24012
Microsoft Active Directory MVP

http://www.activedirectory-win2000.com
http://www.grouppolicy-win2000.com