Chapter 16. Migrating from Exchange 2000 to Exchange Server 2003

IN THIS CHAPTER

• Outlining Migration Options from Exchange 2000 to Exchange Server 2003

• Deploying a Prototype Lab for the Exchange Server 2003 Migration Process

• Migrating to Exchange Server 2003 Using the In-Place Upgrade Approach

• Migrating to Exchange Server 2003 Using the Move Mailbox Method

• Best Practices

The differences between Exchange 2000 and Exchange Server 2003 are not monumental. In many ways, Exchange Server 2003 is more akin to a major service pack to Exchange 2000 than anything. With this in mind, upgrading an existing Exchange 2000 implementation to Exchange Server 2003 might not be high on many organizations' wish lists. However, the lack of major architectural differences between the two builds of Exchange can actually work to make an upgrade a more tempting prospect. The ease of upgrading from Exchange 2000 can bring the enhanced capabilities of Exchange Server 2003, particularly in the areas of remote connectivity and productivity, closer.

Ease of upgrade aside, due diligence should still be used when planning the deployment. A well- constructed prototype environment can help facilitate a smooth deployment of Exchange Server 2003, test design assumptions, and reduce the risk associated with any migration project. In addition, a migration to Exchange Server 2003 can also serve as a good opportunity to restructure an inefficient or ill-designed Exchange 2000 implementation.

This chapter focuses on best practice approaches to migrating from an existing Exchange 2000 implementation to Exchange Server 2003. Pros and cons of various migration approaches are presented, and sample step-by-step guides are detailed. In addition, special scenarios, such as multi-forest migrations, are discussed and illustrated .