Computer Performance, Exchange 2003

 

Microsoft Exchange 2003 - Mixed and Native Modes

Introduction to Exchange 2003's Two Modes

To take advantage of all the new Exchange 2003 features you need to change from mixed to native mode.  Naturally, you must wait until there are no more Exchange 5.5 servers before you make the switch.

Contents for Exchange 2003's Mixed and Native Mode

Mixed Mode in Exchange 2003

In mixed mode Exchange 5.5 and Exchange 2003 will be able to communicate and co-exist in the same organization. Those old Exchange 5.5 servers will not understand some of the new features of Exchange 2003, so you must not switch to native mode until you de-commission the last Exchange 5.5 server.

The principle of mixed and native mode also applies to the Windows operating system.  NT 4.0, Windows 2000 and Server 2003 can all co-exist in the same domain.  When you have decommissioned all the old operating systems the term to get the full set of features you 'Raise Domain Level' and then 'Raise Forest level'.  These Raise Level configurations are the equivalent of switching to Native, its just that Microsoft use different terminology to express the greater number of mixed domain combinations.


TrainSignal - Guy's recommended training videos for Exchange 2003Exchange Server 2007 is a complex topic, do you need practical hands on training?  As an MCT trainer, I can thoroughly recommend TrainSignal.  In particular, I like the way that TrainSignal cover all learning methods, instructor lead, video and of course text material.  You can either take one module, for example Exchange 2007 or go for a combination of modules.  Learn more about Microsoft Exchange Server 2007 here


Benefits of   Exchange 2003's Native Mode

Once you switch to Native mode you can take advantage of the following new features of Exchange Server 2003:

  • Rename your Exchange organization.
  • Consolidate administrative groups and define routing groups and administrative groups with greater flexibility.
  • Move mailboxes between servers in different administrative groups.
  • Create Query based Distribution groups (See more here)
  • Create the InetOrgPerson object (See more here)
  • Routing groups can contain servers from multiple administration groups.
  • Routing uses the faster 8BIT MIME data transfer.
  • In Native mode there is no need for any ADC' agreements with NT 4.0, so they can safely be removed.
  •  You can move servers between routing groups.

 

Exchange Monitor from SolarWindsGuy Recommends: The SolarWinds Exchange Monitor

Here is a free tool to monitor your Exchange Server.  Download and install the utility, then inspect your mail queues, monitor the Exchange server's memory, confirm there is enough disk space and check the CPU utilization. This is the real deal - there is no catch.  SolarWinds provides this fully-functioning product for free, as part of their commitment to supporting the network management community.

Free Download of SolarWinds Exchange Monitor

How to switch Exchange 2003 to Native mode

Mixed mode is the default when you install the first Exchange 2003 server.  This is how you make the switch: open the Exchange 2003 Administration program, then Right click the Organization Name, Properties and select Change Operation Mode.

To save yourself a reboot, Restart the Microsoft Exchange Information Store. How do you find the Information Store Service>   -  Administration Tools, Services. (I also restart the other Exchange services at this point.)

Exchange 2000 co-existing with Exchange 2003

If your situation is Exchange 2000 co-existing with Exchange 2003, then, provided you have no plans to introduce any Exchange 5.5 servers, I would switch to Native mode.  There is no 'Raise Domain' and Raise Forest' level as there is in Windows Server 2003.

.

Summary

Logically, if you have a mixture of Exchange Servers they all need to see and talk to one another, so the default is Native Mode.  The price you pay for compatibility is that the new features are unavailable because the old Exchange 5.5. cannot understand or cope with the new technology.  So, as part of your migration plan set a date to 'go native', thereby unleashing the full feature set of Exchange 2003.

 


   Download your Exchange 2003 Migration eBook for only $6.25

Exchange MigrationThe extra features you get in your eBook include:  20 checklists to plan your migration.  Detailed instructions and advice on the best strategy for your organization.

Lots of tips, recommendations and troubleshooting advice.  Problem solving section.  Active Directory explained.  Printer friendly pages.

 

See Also

 .


Google

Webcomputerperformance.co.uk

GFi Events Manager

Guy Recommends: GFi EventsManager

Here is a solution to monitor, manage and archive thousands of events that are generated by devices across your entire network.  Get your free evaluation copy of GFI EventsManager.

 

Home Copyright © 1999-2008 Computer Performance LTD All rights reserved

Please report a broken link, or an error.