For Exchange administrators, an ideal Exchange Server 2007 transition would include a pristine environment with the latest hardware, updated messaging systems, no concerns about loss of data or functionality, and plenty of time to test and deploy the new installation. More typically, Exchange administrators must swiftly transition their current messaging solutions to Exchange 2007 over a weekend or slowly through a coexistence period. Exchange 2007's new server roles and confusing terminology might leave you wondering how and when to begin the transition process. You can kick off your transition to Exchange 2007 and help ensure that it’s an orderly process by performing certain checks prior to the transition, preparing Active Directory (AD), and installing Exchange 2007’s server roles in the optimum order. Additionally, by setting up an environment in which your legacy Exchange servers and Exchange 2007 server coexist while you move mailboxes and transition public folders, you can make the change-over easier for IT and end users. . . .