Directory Services Restore Mode (DSRM) is a function on

Active Directory Active Directory (AD) is a directory service developed by Microsoft for Windows domain networks. It is included in most Windows Server operating systems as a set of processes and services. Initially, Active Directory was used only for centralize ...

Domain Controllers On Microsoft Servers, a domain controller (DC) is a server computer that responds to security authentication requests (logging in, etc.) within a Windows domain. A ''domain'' is a concept introduced in Windows NT whereby a user may be granted access ...

to take the server offline for emergency maintenance, particularly restoring backups of AD objects. It is accessed on

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via the advanced startup menu, similarly to safe mode.

Password

In Windows 2000, the DSRM password is typically created as a

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value (blank), which is also the

Recovery Console The Recovery Console is a feature of the Windows 2000, Windows XP and Windows Server 2003 operating systems. It provides the means for administrators to perform a limited range of tasks using a command-line interface. Its primary function is to ...

password. Starting with Windows Server 2003, a DSRM password must be defined when the domain controller is promoted. Anyone with the password who has access to the domain controller can reboot the machine, copy and modify the Active Directory database, and reboot the server without leaving any trace of the activity. DSRM password changes cannot be scripted, but can be accomplished manually through the command line; DSRM passwords can also be automatically changed and audited using Privileged Identity Management software.

Alternatives

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, an "Active Directory Recycle Bin" was added, which allows on-line restoration of accidentally-deleted AD objects. Its functionality is reminiscent of Windows' own

Recycle Bin A recycling bin (or recycle bin) is a container used to hold recyclables before they are taken to recycling centers. Recycling bins exist in various sizes for use inside and outside homes, offices, and large public facilities. Separate cont ...

function.

References

External links

Securing the DSRM Password

Restart the domain controller in Directory Services Restore Mode locally
Active Directory {{Windows-stub

Password

Alternatives

See also

References

External links