Remove a Domain Controller

Domain controllers provide central locations for Windows networking permissions and computers configured on the network. A domain controller is "promoted" as a main server on the network. If the server crashes or has too many issues, the network administrator can remove it from the network. The process is called "demotion," because the server's domain controller properties are removed and the machine becomes a stand-alone computer. The process is executed on the domain controller machine you want to remove.

This article will help you to remove a domain controller.

Instructions

1. Click the Windows "Start" button on the domain controller you wish to remove and select "Run." Enter "dcpromo/forceremoval" in the text box and press the "OK" button. This opens a configuration window that guides you through the process of domain controller demotion.
   
   
2. Click "Next" at the opening configuration welcome screen. Click the "Next" button again at the information page that warns you about controller demotion.
   
   
3. Enter the administrator password. This is required to remove a domain controller from a Windows network. Click the "Next" button.
   
   
4. Click the "Finish" button at the final screen. The domain controller is removed from the network. Click "Restart" when prompted to reboot your machine.