Domain Join without Deleting Existing Computer Object?

[Jason M]

Is there a way to domain join a machine without having to delete the computer object in AD first? All my attempts to do so failed, even when using domain admin credentials. Somehow, SCCM can join machines to the domain over existing just fine, and I even tried using our SCCM credentials with SmartDeploy, no luck.

[SmartDeploySupport]

Hi Jason,

No, you will need to delete the computer object in AD first. SmartDeploy does not have the ability to move or delete computer objects in AD. 

Thanks,

Devon

SmartDeploy Support

[Jason M]

Thanks, Devon. Is this a Microsoft limitation? I know there are multiple ways to domain-join a computer via command line. 

[SmartDeploySupport]

Correct, it's a Windows limitation.

Thanks,

Devon

SmartDeploy Support

[Jason M]

Looks like there's a way around this limitation. As long as you're using the same account to domain join each time, you won't need to delete the computer object since the owner of the object stays the same. So if you're using a service account to domain join all your machines, you'll probably be fine.

I understand this may not be best practice but it sure is convenient 😁