Directory Services Restore Mode

To boot into DSRM, the user can reboot the computer and press F8 during the start-up sequence. The following options will be displayed:

• Safe Mode
• VGA Mode
• Last Known Good Configuration
• Directory Services Restore Mode

The user must select Directory Services Restore Mode.

In Windows 2000, the DSRM password is typically created as a null value (blank), which is also the Recovery Console 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.[1]

Microsoft Windows Server 2008 R2 has introduced a new Active Directory "Recycle Bin" feature, which works analogously to the well-known Windows recycle bin. Using the ADRB functionality allows on-line restoration of accidentally-deleted AD objects, alleviating the need to take a DC off-line for minor recovery tasks, e.g. to revive a few users or an OU. The new "AD Recycle Bin" facility is only available at the native 2008 R2 domain and forest levels or higher.

• Active Directory
• List of Microsoft Windows components

• Securing the DSRM Password
• Restart the domain controller in Directory Services Restore Mode locally