XADM: Directory Does Not Start After Service Pack Upgrade

• Microsoft Exchange Server, versions 4.0, 5.0

SYMPTOMS

While you are installing the service pack, a message appears stating that the MAPI32.dll file is in use by another application and then gives you the options to Abort, Retry, or Ignore.

If you choose Ignore, the Setup process completes with no other error messages and gives you the message that the Setup completed. However, when you start the directory, the clock will continue to turn.

In the Event Viewer Application Log, the most recent events are Event ID 11, "Database engine stopped", and Event ID 10, "Database engine started". No other significant events are listed.

CAUSE

This problem usually occurs with the Exchange services when the upgrade encounters errors during the process, mainly when files involved in the upgrade are in use. This prevents a graceful upgrade.

RESOLUTION

To resolve this problem, make sure that ONLY the necessary services are running in Control Panel/Services. Make sure all third-party programs are stopped, including SNMP, backup software, e-mail clients, virus software, Systems Management Server, and SQL Server. After this is done, reapply the Exchange Server Service Pack; it should go through cleanly. After it does, the Exchange services should start in normal fashion, with a consistent database.

WORKAROUND

The only way to get out of this process is to "kill" it with Kill.exe. Microsoft recommends not stopping any Microsoft Exchange process while it may be writing information to the database, for this may lead to inconsistencies in the database. Contact Microsoft Product Support Services before continuing.

MORE INFORMATION

The installation of new Service Packs should complete error-free; if not, the actual messages or pop-up errors should be viewed as important and may indicate an installation failure.

Keywords          : XADM kbusage
Version           : WINDOWS:4.0,5.0
Platform          : WINDOWS
Issue type        : kbprb