This article explains a registry entry which can be used to place the authenticating domain controller on top of the DFS Referral list.
The DFS Referral list is returned to the client when a client computer asks for the DFS Referral of the SYSVOL Share. The authenticating Domain Controller is ordered randomly in the list. To make sure the authenticating Domain Controller is returned first to the user or place the authenticating Domain Controller at the top of the DFS Referral list, you need to modify the following registry entry:
- KEY NAME: HKLM\System\CurrentControlSet\Services\Dfs
- Entry Name: PreferLogonDC
- Type: DWORD
- Value: 1
About Nirmal Sharma
Nirmal is a Microsoft MVP in Directory Services and working as a Technical Architect/Consultant. He has been involved in Microsoft Technologies since 1994 and followed the progression of Microsoft Operating Systems and software. He is specialized in Directory Services, Microsoft Clustering, SQL, MOM, Exchange and Citrix. In his spare time, he likes to help others and write "internal" technical articles, white papers and tips on various Microsoft technologies. You can contact him at nirmal_sharma@mvps.org.
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