NT4 + Exch 5.5 & Netware to W2k3 Migration

We currently have 2 NT4 servers and a Netware 4.1 server....
The PDC server handles Intranet, Profiles, Backup and other misc tasks.
The BDC runs Exchange 5.5.
All files storage and print services are located on our Netware server.
All 3 servers are Pentium Pro 200 w/ 128MB ram....

We have about 75 P4 workstations running W2kPro.

We are experiencing continued slowdown with these aging servers.

So, we have decided to upgrade and are considering consolidating to 2
servers.

Migrate the Netware file storage, print services, and the PDC functions
along w/ Profile storage, Intranet and Backup to one server.
Migrate the NT4 w/Exchange 5.5 to another server W2k3 and Exchange 2k3....

Here are the issues I think I face:
- I don't think I can perform an in-place upgrade on the existing servers.
Memory too low, etc.
- I'm told drivers for the new server are not compatible w/ NT4.

So, it looks like I need to setup the new servers and migrate box to box.
Netware user names match but I am considering migrating the data w/o
security and adding security after the fact.

Are there any warnings I should now about?
Is consolidating servers (PDC and F+P) onto one of the new servers feasible
or will be experience any problems?
The new servers are P4Xeon 3ghz w/ 2GB ram and RAID5. More ram?
Is the formula still add RAM before a 2nd processor?
Any suggestions on what should be done 1st? I was planning on moving the
Netware data 1st so I could eliminate the Netware/IPX stuff.
Can I setup 1 of the net servers w/ W2k3, move the netware data and bring it
online before moving the PDC functions or do I need to do everything at
once?


Thanks,
Paul

Hi Paul,

Yes, this can avoid to install the IPX/SPX on the new server. Therefore,
after doing this, you need to re-configure the share folders and share
permission.

You can install the second Windows 2003 server to join the new Windows 2003
AD. You can promote the new server to the DC or not. Install the Exchange
2003 on the server. Then, mmigrate the mailbox from the old Exchange 5.5.

Thanks for using Microsoft News Group!

Sincerely,

Steven Liu

Microsoft Online Partner Support

MCSE 2000

Get Secure! - www.microsoft.com/security

This posting is provided "as is" with no warranties and confers no rights.