Recently I installed 2 2008 terminal servers , and when I started configuring them I realized that I can’t use lot of new features that are available only via 2008 Group Policy . The network was 2003 , and adding or upgrading current DC to 2008 domain controller rises project costs ( 2008 CAL’s for entire domain ) I had to look for other solution .
Since windows 2008 GPO templates changed their format from ADM to ADMX I couldn’t import windows 2008 templates to windows 2003 DC.
So here how you solve this.
You must use Vista +sp1 Desktop
First , you need to extend your schema to 2008
The first schema updates need to be applied to the Active Directory Forest. In order to apply them you need to run the adprep application from the domain controller that holds the schema role master. To run the forest schema updates use the following command: adprep /forestprep
Once the forest updates have been updates, the next step is to run the adprep for each domain in the forest. This should be run on the domain controller that holds the Infrastructure operations master role. The command to run is: adprep /domainprep
After you finish with with schema expansion
Go to your Vista desktop.
Download RSAT tool for vista x64 and for vista x86 and install it
After instalation is completed.
- Go to Control Panel click on Program & Features
- Locate and click on Turn Windows features on or off
- Install relevant Feature Administration and Role Administration tools (For group policy install Group Policy Management Tools)
Now you can use all Windows 2008 and Vista GPO goodies on your windows 2003 domain .
