General Function Check for TCP/IP Host Name Resolution

The following procedure tests not only name resolution, but also initiates a basic ping to the Microsoft Exchange Server computer. The ping utility determines whether a TCP/IP network connection can be made between two computers.

A slow response to the Check Name function can be the result of a slow connection or slow name resolution. It should not take more than 30 to 40 seconds to resolve the name. If it does, you need to determine whether the problem is related to host name resolution or network connection problems.

    To test TCP/IP host name resolution

1. In Control Panel, double-click the Mail icon.
2. In the Services property page, select Microsoft Exchange Server.
3. Choose Properties.
4. In the General property page, ensure that the correct Microsoft Exchange Server name and the mailbox name appear in the text boxes.
5. Choose Check Name. (If the Check Name button is deactivated, add a character to the name in the Mailbox text box and then delete it again. Then choose Check Name.)

If DNS does not respond immediately to the request, additional attempts are made at 5-, 10-, 15-, and 20-second intervals. This is the design of DNS and is usually the cause of slow client startup.