Add Windows Server 2025 as member server on AD FFL and DFL 2016 and install Print Server Role

Question

Hi Everyone,

I’m currently managing an Active Directory environment with a Domain Functional Level (DFL) and Forest Functional Level (FFL) of 2016.

I’m considering adding a Windows Server 2025 as a member server to this domain and configuring it as a print server.

Before proceeding, I wanted to confirm:

1. Are there any compatibility concerns with adding a Windows Server 2025 as a member server in this setup?
2. Are there best practices I should follow when configuring the Print Server role on a newer Windows Server version in such an environment?

I’d appreciate any advice, recommendations, or things to watch out for!

Thank you in advance for your help!

M

Answer 1

1. Compatibility with Windows Server 2025 in a 2016 DFL/FFL Environment

AFAIK, Windows Server 2025 will be backward-compatible with an Active Directory environment that operates at a 2016 Domain Functional Level and Forest Functional Level. Microsoft ensures backward compatibility between new server versions and earlier Active Directory functional levels. As long as the Windows Server 2025 adheres to domain membership protocols (Kerberos, LDAP, etc.), it will function as a member server.

2. Best Practices for Configuring the Print Server Role When configuring the Print Server role on a Windows Server 2025 in an Active Directory environment, consider the following:

a. Driver Compatibility and Management Use Type 4 Printer Drivers: These are recommended for newer Windows Server versions and simplify driver management across environments. Avoid Type 3 Drivers unless required, as they may lead to compatibility issues or administrative overhead.

b. Centralized Management Leverage Group Policy Preferences (GPP): Use GPP to deploy and manage printers to domain users or specific organizational units. Consider using Printer Management Console: This provides centralized control for configuring and managing shared printers.

c. Printer Isolation Use Driver Isolation Mode: Configure printers to run in isolated driver processes to improve server stability. If one printer driver fails, it will not affect others.

d. High Availability Configure Printer Pooling or implement failover clustering if high availability is a requirement. Use Distributed Scan Server for environments that handle high scan traffic.

e. Network Security Restrict access to the print server using Access Control Lists (ACLs). Ensure SMB signing is enabled for secure communication with clients. Apply IP Filtering to limit access to the print server by specific devices.

f. Monitoring and Maintenance Enable Print Server Event Logs to monitor print-related activities and errors. Regularly review and clean the print spooler to avoid stale print jobs from consuming resources.

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hth

Marcin