That's not the way I see ADC and I think that replication piece is what I keep referring too as well. Since Exchange servers should not run on a DC they deploy a connector to manage mailboxes. As you know the mail information (at least prior to 07) is stored as an Active Directory Object. The AD Connector interfaces with Active directory and is required to manage exchange in addition to replication It adds the Active Directory Users and Computers interface basically.Quote:
The ADC is only used to replicate information from AD to Exchange 5.5 organizations. Do you mean something other than the ADC?
Exchange 2003 alters the AD schema significantly. So if you have Exchange servers or management station that do not have an updated Connector you are in trouble when you try and integrate the new server. At least on 2003. And not just for 5.5, 2000 as well. I have exchange system managers on computers other than exchange servers for example. They require the connector and it's upgrades. I emphasise this because it caused me GREAT headaches and some data corruption. Assuming you try to move a box or modify exchange properties.
I am like you phish, I only manage exchange when I am forced to intervene. Everything I have learned is through sleepless nights. ;) I tried to take a formal class once, they are hard to find here. I am going to send someone though the next time I see one.
I am very surprised that 07 doesn't manage users through AD. That goes agaisnt centrilized repository of user information and the industry trends. You have to build a user on AD then on Exchange? Doesn't make sense to me at this point.
Might as well use Linux and LDAP. ;) Save money.