How to change the DNS alias of the Enterprise Vault server

Problem

When Enterprise Vault (EV) is configured on the first computer in a site, a Site Alias is created, using the DNS alias entered for that computer. Rather than use the physical name of the EV server, the vault site alias is used to refer to the Enterprise Vault site.

In the event that the physical server name is changed, the alias can be updated to point to the new EV server name, thus allowing archived items to be opened with minimal impact to the end users. In some cases, the alias itself may need to be changed. In this event, the previously archived items that reference the old site alias will no longer function.

Solution

1. Confirm the DNS alias and the original server name by executing the following query:
   
   USE EnterpriseVaultDirectory
   SELECT ComputerName as "Alias", ComputerNameAlternate as "Physical Name"
   FROM ComputerEntry
    
2. In DNS, modify the alias to the desired new value.
    
3. Back up the EnterpriseVaultDirectory database
    
4. Update the Alias in EV by executing the following query:
   
   Use EnterpriseVaultDirectory
   Update ComputerEntry
   SET ComputerName = '<New alias for EVSERVER>'
   WHERE ComputerName = '<Old alias for EVSERVER>'
    
5. Restart the EV Admin service.
    
6. Refer to 100031222 in the related articles section for steps to Update Service Locations
    
7. Synchronize all mailboxes
    

Note:  Enterprise Vault Shortcuts contain pointers to the Enterprise Vault alias. As such, shortcuts to previously archived items will not function until they have been updated with the new alias as described in 100017521 in the related articles section. This applies to all versions of Enterprise Vault.