I have a Windows 2003 Server that I want to migrate to new hardware. All the setup and configuration was done by my predecessor. Right now I'm in a real time crunch and I just want to copy all the files and settings to the new machine. Is there an easy way to do this or do I need to manually copy all the files and add all the settings?
Microsoft KB suggests "Automated System Recovery", is this the best way forward?
Best Answer
Is the server a 2003 sbs server or a standard/enterprise?
The first thing you need to do is make sure migrating your hardware will conform with Microsoft licensing requirements. You need to check if your OS is OEM or Retail, if its OEM it dies with the hardware if its retail you should be ok.
Is this server a domain controller?
You will need to check the folder structure and the standard that was setup when the server was brought into action.
If you can let me know the answers to the above I can edit my answer with a solution for you.