Windows Server – Cannot Add 2012 Server to 2003 Domain Due to Forrest Functional Level

windowswindows-server-2003windows-server-2012-r2

I have a single 2003 DC (Enterprise edition 32 bit SP2) that according to AD Domains and Trusts is at functional level Windows Server 2003.

According to AD Users and Computers my Domain functional level is also 2003.

However when I try add a 2012 R2 server as a domain controller on the domain it gives an error "Verification of replica failed. The forest functional level is Windows 2003"

When I run adfind -rootdse forestfunctionality I get back that it is 0 [Windows 2000 Forest Mode]

How do I get my current 2003 setup to correctly be on 2003 Forest Functional level so I can add in my 2012 Domain controller.

Screen shot of AD Domains and Trust current level

Best Answer

Rob, the other two answers are correct. I think you have missed the difference between where you are clicking. See the screen shots below.

Forest: Right Click at the very top
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Domain: Right click on the domain name
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