Correct Way to Rename an Active Directory Domain Controller

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If you rename your DC by renaming a Domain Controller in the normal way you would rename a computer (using the System > Rename this PC gui), you didn’t do it right and your metadata is likely irreversibly damaged.

However, I have seen success in this situation when multiple DC’s exist by demoting a re-promoting the DC. If only a single DC exists I would say its maybe a good idea to follow the below guide as it may get your out of the proverbial but probably not recommended and you may have to rely on backups.

 Use the below method carefully to rename your DC in a right way and for a smooth migration

Step 1: Getting ready.

Open a command prompt. (Windows key+r (run) + cmd)

Step 2: Adding an alternate computer name.

SYNTAX : netdom computername <currentDC FQDN> /add:<newDCName FQDN>

In the command prompt, type (minus quotes) “netdom computername wrongname.domain.local /add:server.domain.local“

 

This should return with “Added (NAME) as an alternate name for the computer. The command completed successfully.“

 renaming a domain controller – adding the new name

Step 3: Make the new name the primary.

SYNTAX: netdom computername <currentDC FQDN> /makeprimary:<newDCName FQDN>

Type netdom computername wrongname.domain.local /makeprimary:server.domain.local

IMPORTANT: This command will return successful, and warn you that you need to reboot immediately, as it may not authenticate logons (very important if only DC in forest)

 renaming a domain controller – make the new name primary

Step 4: Reboot the server.

Pick your poison. I like “shutdown /r /t 0” in the cmd.

Step 5: Check new server name.

Go to system properties and confirm new computer name.

 renaming a domain controller – enumerating all the hostnames

Step 6: Remove old hostname.

SYNTAX: netdom computername <newDCName FQDN> /remove:<oldDCName FQDN>

(remember, in a command prompt)

Type “netdom computername server.domain.local /remove:wrongname.domain.local“

Command should return successfully.

 renaming a domain controller – removing the old name

Step 7: 

in cmd, run a “dcdiag” to make sure everything is AOK.

Step 8: Clean up.

If you use logon scripts, remember to update the UNC paths with the new server name.

 


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