We are going to set up a server environment for Microsoft Dynamics AX 2012. The system requirements mention that "Active Directory must be configured in native mode." In researching this requirement, I found a TechNet article describing six domain functional levels:
- Windows 2000 mixed (the default in Windows Server 2003)
- Windows 2000 native
- Windows Server 2003 interim
- Windows Server 2003
- Windows Server 2008
- Windows Server 2008 R2
Looking at this list, it appears that our new software requires the domain functional level "Windows 2000 native." Is this correct? Or, is there a "native mode" for every domain functional level? Can a Windows Server 2008 R2 domain be configured in native mode?
Would it make sense for a current product not to work at the most current domain functional level?
Best Answer
"Native" mode in this context usually means 2000/2003 Native or above. If you're in 2000/2003 mixed mode, then there are certain things that aren't available in order to allow for NT4 Domain Controllers.
Verify with the vendor, but it's a safe bet to assume that anything 2000 native, 2003 native, or higher is fine.