How to disconnect a computer from a local controller domain and activate it on MS Azure

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how to disconnect a computer from a local controller domain and activate it on MS Azure

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Disconnecting a computer from a local domain controller and connecting it to Microsoft Azure is a process that involves several steps. This task typically requires administrative access both to the local machine and to the Azure environment. Here’s a high-level overview of the process:

Disconnecting from the Local Domain Controller

  1. Backup Data: Before making any changes, ensure all important data on the computer is backed up.
  2. Local Admin Account: Ensure you have a local administrator account set up on the computer. This is crucial because once the computer is removed from the domain, domain accounts won’t be accessible.
  3. Disconnect from Domain:
  • Go to Control Panel > System and Security > System.
  • Click on Change settings or Advanced system settings.
  • In the System Properties window, under the Computer Name tab, click Change.
  • Select Workgroup and enter a workgroup name (it can be anything if you’re not joining a new domain).
  • Click OK, and you’ll be prompted to restart the computer.
  1. Restart the Computer: This step finalizes the removal from the domain.

Connecting to Microsoft Azure

  1. Azure Subscription: Ensure you have an Azure subscription. If not, you’ll need to set one up.
  2. Azure Virtual Network: If you don’t already have a virtual network in Azure, you’ll need to create one. This network will be what your computer connects to.
  3. Install Azure AD Connect (if not already installed in your environment):
  • Azure AD Connect is a tool that connects your on-premises environment to Azure AD (not Azure VMs).
  • Download and install Azure AD Connect from the Microsoft website.
  1. Joining Azure AD:
  • On the computer, go to Settings > Accounts > Access work or school.
  • Click Connect, and then select Join this device to Azure Active Directory.
  • Enter your Azure AD credentials when prompted and follow the instructions.
  1. Verification:
  • After joining Azure AD, you might need to restart the computer.
  • Verify the connection by logging in with an Azure AD account.
  1. Optional - Azure Virtual Machines:
  • If you’re planning to use this computer as a virtual machine in Azure, you would then go through the process of creating a VM and attaching the computer’s disk as the VM’s disk in Azure.

Important Considerations

  • Compatibility: Ensure that your computer’s OS is compatible with Azure AD.
  • Internet Access: The computer needs internet access to complete these processes.
  • Permissions: You need administrative permissions on both the local computer and your Azure environment.
  • Domain Dependencies: Be aware of any dependencies on the local domain (like software or network resources) that might be affected by this change.

If you’re unsure or encounter issues, it might be a good idea to consult with an IT professional familiar with your specific setup. Remember, this is a high-level overview, and specific steps can vary depending on your computer’s operating system and your Azure configuration.