What is the order of steps when elevating an Active Directory domain functional level from 2003 to 2012?

Question

Microsoft

Do you need to perform the operation step by step, i.e. 2003 > 2008 > 2008 R2 > 2012 > 2012 R2, or can you immediately jump to the final point? What are the general pitfalls?

Answer 1

You need to translate step by step, without options. It will not work to jump - the required components are missing between 2003 and 2012 r2. Read the recommendations
of the micro-soft ones. You need to introduce a domain controller higher into the domain, transfer the pdc roles to it, then enter it even higher, transfer it again, etc., until you remove all the objectionable ones, do not try to grade the server itself - everything can end sadly.
Do it very carefully, thoughtfully and without sudden movements. Good luck!

Answer 2

Did according to these manuals:
habrahabr.ru/company/microsoft/blog/245667
habrahabr.ru/company/microsoft/blog/255169