Chapter 7: Installing Exchange Server 2003

Overview

So far, you’ve learned a bit about how Microsoft Exchange Server 2003 works and how to plan your Exchange organization. In this chapter, you’ll actually get your hands dirty and install Exchange Server. You’ll do this in four basic stages:

1. Make sure your server is prepared for the installation. The Exchange Deployment Tools will help you through this process.

2. Once preparation is finished, you’ll run the Exchange Server 2003 Setup program from the Deployment Tools window, click a few buttons, and supply some information about your environment.

3. Verify that the new Exchange services are up and running.

4. Apply other software that might need to be integrated with Exchange Server, such as Exchange service packs, backup software, and virus- detection software.

Regardless of whether you’re installing Exchange as the first server or as a subsequent server within the Exchange messaging system, you’ll find that if you are prepared, Exchange Server 2003 is not difficult to install. If you are not prepared and choose the wrong options, however, you might end up having to reinstall the software or, worse, wreaking a bit of havoc on your existing system. For anyone involved in installing Exchange Server 2003, this is a critical chapter.