Unable to Change Domain Name of Windows NT BDC

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This article was previously published under Q139471

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SYMPTOMS

After you change the domain name of the primary domain controller (PDC) in Control Panel Network and then attempt to change the domain name of the backup domain controller (BDC), the following error message appears:

You already have a connection to the domain. You must disconnect before joining the domain.

When you attempt to use the previous domain name for the PDC, the following error message appears:

The domain name entered is already in use by another computer.

RESOLUTION

To correct this problem, disconnect any connections you have from the BDC to the PDC before you change the domain name of the BDC.

NOTE: This only works if you change to a new domain name. That is, a previously non-existing domain.