Five Steps to Rebuild Exchange client access server

Most of the documentation  backing up Exchange Server 2007 and Exchange 2010 states that it isn’t necessary to back up your client access server (CAS). This makes sense because all of a client access server’s configuration information is stored in Active Directory. That said, you should still know how to rebuild a failed server.

If your CAS fails due to an irreparable hardware problem; follow these steps to repair it:

Reset the client access server’s computer account within the Active Directory Users and Computers console. Do not delete the account.

Install Windows on the new server and then install the same OS version as the failed server.

Rename the server to match the name the CAS used and join the server to your domain.

Depending on the version of Exchange Server and service pack you were running, insert the corresponding installation media into the server and run the following command:

Setup.com /M:RecoverServer

After the command runs, Setup will install the Exchange binaries and use the information stored in Active Directory to rebuild your CAS.

Note: This technique can also be used to rebuild any other Exchange Server roles, except for the edge transport server.

These steps work well to rebuild a failed client access server; however, there is a major caveat. This method only works if the server is running a standard configuration, which is unlikely since many organizations personalize their Outlook Web Access interface.

Using these steps will rebuild the CAS to a functional state, but any OWA customizations will be lost. This happens because Setup copies the Exchange binaries from the installation media, not your customized files.

Rebuilding a CAS and recovering OWA customizations
You have two options for recovering OWA customizations after rebuilding your client access server:

Perform a full server backup, then restore the entire server.

Make a backup of your customizations, then rebuild your CAS using the five step outline above. After that, you can restore your OWA customizations from backup.

In my environment, I only back up OWA customizations. In the event of a failure, my infrastructure is configured such that Exchange Setup rebuilds the CAS and then I manually restore customizations.

Although configuration information stored in Active Directory may change slightly, binaries on the server itself probably won’t change unless you install a patch or perform additional customizations.

Considering the static nature of a CAS, it’s tempting to make a full server backup and then store your backup in a fireproof vault. The only problem is that a full backup will quickly become outdated.

Windows periodically resets the password associated with Active Directory accounts, which gives your backup a limited shelf life. Depending on the version of Windows your CAS is running, the backup may only be relevant for 60 days. This happens because the password breaks synchronization with the password stored in the backup.

You can also reset the computer account password to use your backup, but it’s easier to back up only customizations. That way, you don’t have to worry about your backup becoming outdated — as long as you make a new backup with each additional customization.

Why Do I Need Hosted Exchange 2007?

Why Do I Need Hosted Exchange 2007?

Microsoft Exchange Server is a product developed by the company with the same name, designed to meet the challenges of today’s business world. There are several versions available, with Microsoft Exchange Server 2007 being the best and most pursued by various businessmen. Unfortunately, many of the small companies cannot afford to run this platform, preferring the advantages of hosted Exchange 2007. But first, let’s find out a little bit more about the application!

Each day, more and more people become interested in conducting their own business. The number of small business owners increases exponentially as the market conditions change and necessities become more diverse. Even the smallest company needs the advantages offered by the Exchange Server 2007, allowing for better communication with employees, associates and prospective customers. There is no limit to the mobility provided through this platform, allowing companies to increase their productivity and keep pace with the stringent competition.

Comparing the costs of running the platform yourself or going to a professional company, offering hosted Exchange 2007, you will certainly discover the best choice to be made. Managed exchange hosting has become a preferred practice, many companies deciding to pay a modest fee per month in order to obtain included benefits. Perhaps you are wondering where are you to find a company offering Exchange server 2007 outsourcing. Well, the Internet seems to be a pretty good place but you will have to spend some time searching for a professional company.

The benefits of hosted Exchange 2007 are the same as if it were applied within the business but with more affordable prices. Thus, you can choose a professional IT company and request their services for Exchange server 2007 outsourcing. You will take advantage of one of the best software products, used by millions of businessmen from various parts of the world and increase the productivity of your company before you know it. You have the electronic mail for enhanced communication between company employees but also with potential customers, calendaring for careful planning, contact log and task scheduling. These are just few of the features Microsoft Exchange server 2007 is presented with, the product being adapted for mobile and web access. In fact, the latest version has been optimized for data storage, which makes it even more attractive.

If you decide to go with hosted Exchange 2007, you will soon discover that you have taken a wise decision. Just imagine all those great features becoming available for a small monthly fee. Voice mail, improved search and enhanced web access represent key elements that were added to new versions. Filtering selections have also been improved just as the web access interface. As for the whole outsourcing concept, you will finally have the time to focus on running your business while these experts run the program for you. Online, you can read all about the services they provide but also find detailed information on the Exchange server 2007.

Surviving in today’s business world is a constant provocation and you need all the assistance you can get. With hosted Exchange 2007, you can enjoy secure email access, benefit from advanced scheduling and task planning, with facilitated web access and adaptability for wireless devices. The question is: are you prepared to deal with all this technology? If not, you have experts to help you and offer the best outsourcing services you have ever seen!

We are a team of professional IT specialists, offering hosted Exchange 2007 outsourcing services. Come to our website and discover the benefits of Exchange server 2007 platform, all offered through our company!