How to reset the domain administrator password on SBS 2011 Essentials
A little while back in April 2012 i published a post on How to reset the domain administrator password on a Windows Server 2008(R2) based system.
It has been brought to my attention that there might be a variation to this procedure on a SBS 2011 Essentials system. When you attempt to boot from the install DVD, there doesn’t seem to be an option for repairing the system in the same manner as in Server 2008(R2) based system. Only option is a restore. The F8 boot up option doesn’t give any more help either.
As a quick workaround you can try to power off the machine while booting up. Next time when it’s turned on, additional option will be displayed in the boot up menu – beside Normal Start you will also have the Repair option. When you choose this option, you will be able to follow the original article in resetting the domain administrator password.
I’m well aware that unexpected powering off of any computer is not recommended, but due to time constraint and limited access to SBS 2011 Essentials system no better solution has been found so far. I’d welcome any notes you might have with repairing a SBS 2011 essentials system.