Windows Server Longhorn will support three forest functional levels:

  • Windows 2000 --- W2K DCs and higher
    • See MS-KBQ322692 for features
  • Windows Server 2003 Interim --- Not supported/available!
  • Windows Server 2003 --- W2K3 DCs and higher
    • See MS-KBQ322692 for features
  • Windows Server Longhorn --- WLH DCs and higher
    • No additional new features. Level is available to prevent the promotion of previous OS-es to a DC

 

Windows Server Longhorn will support three domain functional levels:

  • Windows 2000 Mixed --- Not supported/available!
  • Windows 2000 Native --- W2K DCs and higher
    • See MS-KBQ322692 for features
  • Windows Server 2003 Interim --- Not supported/available!
  • Windows Server 2003 --- W2K3 DCs and higher
    • See MS-KBQ322692 for features
  • Windows Server Longhorn --- WLH DCs and higher
    • SYSVOL replicated through DFS-R instead of NTFRS
    • New additional encryption mechanism for Kerberos
    • Recording interactive logon information like:
      • Last successful interactive logon information and from which computer
      • Number of failed interactive logons and the last failed interactive logon information
    • Multiple Password Policies per AD domain. Read more here and here.

 

NOTE: this information is based upon a beta release of Windows Server Longhorn and thus subject to change in the final RTM release. Do not use Windows Server Longhorn in a production environment without the explicit commitment from Microsoft for help and support.

 

Cheers,

Jorge

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* This posting is provided "AS IS" with no warranties and confers no rights!
* Always test before implementing!
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