Question

How to build a domain

Domain, DNS, Exchange 2003, Windows Server 2003

I'm trying to build a domain.
I would like to confirm the order of steps to sucessfully accomplish this task. Such as build a domain controller first, DNS then Exchange 2003 server. The os for the servers are all Windows Server 2003. Any help would be appreciated.

You are correct, first thing you need to setup is the domain controller (this can handle both dhcp and the dns) then introduce whatever server you need i.e exchange.

Although it is good practice to add a backup domain controller so I would set the primary and secondary up before adding anything else to the domain

hope that helps

You may try without registering the domain.
1. PDC (Primary domain controler)
After you installed Windows, set DNS to 127.0.0.1
run dcpromo
It will ask you if you want to install DNS. Just click next.
2. BDC (Backup domain controler) as an option.
After you installed Windows, set DNS to your PDC.
run dcpromo
Choose additional domain controler.
3. Exchange
Set DNS to PDC.
You have to join to the domain before you install Exchange.
You have to install Windows component, ASP.NET, IIS, NNTP and SMTP before you install Exchange.