Using dcpromo to demote a domain controller
Article Summary: This article is designed to provide steps for demoting a server that is a domain controller
Solution:
Complete the steps in the solution to achieve this goal.
a. Logon to the server using the domain Administrator account. Press Windows Logo+R, type dcpromo and press Enter. Acknowledge the global catalog message.
b. Click Next on Delete the Domain. Select Delete the domain because the server is the last domain controller in the domain only if this server is the last server in the domain.
Warning: If the Delete the domain because the server is the last domain controller in the domain option is selected all of the AD objects will be deleted upon completion of this process assuming this is the last DC.
Note: Do not proceed if the following message appears after clicking Next in step b. The AD environment isn’t healthy as the server should be able to contact another DC unless the Delete the domain because the server is the last domain controller in the domain option was selected.
c. Type the Administrator Password, confirm it and click Next.
d. Click Next on Summary.
