Exchange 2003:
At startup, DSAccess uses a discovery process to identify the Active
Directory topology and assess the availability of domain controllers and
global catalog servers. After startup is complete (and every 15 minutes
thereafter), DSAccess uses an almost identical process to rediscover the
topology and to check for any changes in server availability.

Exchange 2003 Technical Reference Guide - Exchange Server 2003 & AD -
Directory Integration and Exchange Server 2003 (DSAccess & Topology
Discovery)
http://www.microsoft.com/technet/pro...41f15939c.mspx

Outlook: In case of unavailability of DC, you simply restart Outlook:
XCLN: How MAPI Clients Access Active Directory
http://support.microsoft.com/?kbid=256976

Also check DSProxy section in TechRef Guide:
http://www.microsoft.com/technet/pro...c375e5948.mspx
--
Bharat Suneja
MVP - Exchange
www.zenprise.com
NEW blog location:
www.exchangepedia.com/blog
----------------------------------------------


"Paul Bergson [MVP-DS]" wrote in message
...
I'm trying to figure out how long it takes an Outlook client to switch
over from a lost Global Catalog server.

If I logon and an Outlook attaches to dc1 (Which is a gc) later during the
day, this GC is taken out of service. How long does it take for my local
Outlook client to go find a new gc to use?

Do you have any tech articles on this?

What about Exchange 2003, how long will it take to switch over once it
can't get a response?

Any tech articles on this?

--
Paul Bergson
MVP - Directory Services
MCT, MCSE, MCSA, Security+, BS CSci
2003, 2000 (Early Achiever), NT

http://www.pbbergs.com

Please no e-mails, any questions should be posted in the NewsGroup
This posting is provided "AS IS" with no warranties, and confers no
rights.