connecting from client windows xp 2003 to server 2003

[lee720]

I have a virtual PC with windows xp 2003 and windows server2003. I have my server as a static IP and my windows xp 2003 set up as dynamic. I am able to connect to the internet on my server and my client. When I change from workgroup to domain and type in my domain user name and pw from server pops up. I type in my username and pw I click ok and I get a message stating
the following error occurred attempting to join the domain "pass-mcse-exams"
the rpc server is unavailable. I have tried everything recommended, nothing seems to work. Any help or suggestions would be appreciated. Thank You.

[dales]

Firstly I assume you have created a domain (dcpromo'd) the server. secondly you are getting the error message probably because your client is doing its dns resoultion from your router. when you need to join a domain your dns should be set to look at a server with a dns role assigned (for home labs generally its the DC). best thing to do is to switch off dhcp on your router and enable dhcp server role on your server. any home pc's not involved in the lab would need to be assigned static addresses.

Your home router cannot resolve the dns domain only your DC would be able to do that.

Regards
Dales