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We are using Windows Azure and instead of having an on-premises domain controller they want to have the VM in the cloud act as the Active Directory DC. I am using Windows Server 2012 R2 Datacenter with Server Essentials.

The Azure VM is launched in its own Virtual Network so that I have address space for the VPN. Now am I able to join desktops using Azure connect and have those desktops with roaming profiles? The idea is to have the users' desktop and the DC in the cloud. If I use Essentials connect can I accomplish this?

edit: Just want to use Windows Azure the same as I would use an on premises Server 2012 with Essentials role installed with roaming profiles. This means that we need Essentials Connector or VPN or Direct Connect to join work stations remotely with the DC.

HopelessN00b
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user3095668
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1 Answers1

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Its not worth it to pay for the extra VM is a very very scary sentence to say when talking about running a single DC. It's just asking for trouble. 2 DCs per domain at a minimum should be what you're looking for. Those servers shouldn't run any other roles. If you need a file server for roaming profiles, spin up a third instance. Hosting roaming profiles in Azure will likely be abominably slow though.

I strongly urge you to consider hiring a consultant that deals in AD design to help you with this.

MDMarra
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