Install Microsoft SQL Server Reporting Services 2017 (SSRS) on a domain controller

Question

I have set up a Microsoft Windows Server 2012R2 and installed Microsoft SQL Server 2017 Enterprise Edition on it. In general everything works fine. The purpose of this machine is to have a single server SharePoint 2016 Development environment. I have installed similar machines very often in the past, but never with SQL Server 2017 + SSRS.

Now i wanted to install Microsoft SQL Server Reporting Services on the same machine to be able to play around with the new Reporting Services, but unfortunately i receive the following error message when executing SSRS setup:

"Installation Reporting Services on a domain controller is not supported."

Of course the message is clear! But my question is:

Is there any workaround to do this anyway, maybe with a workaround oder fix?

Answer 1

I wouldnt attempt it. Generally speaking, domain controllers should be left as completely stand-alone servers. The risk - even if you think its minimal - of losing a domain controller, or even one of it's FSMO roles could result in a disaster that you do not want to deal with. In the past, I admit I have made mistakes that brought entire companies to a halt. Believe me, thats not something you want to have to explain to your boss.

As for why it doesnt work, I am not 100% sure. Without any research, my gut feeling is one of the services would conflict with the DCs core services and cause an issue. Ive seen white papers from Microsoft that say "dont do this." Many times Ive seen this advice ignored, as it can be done without any hacks. However, if Microsoft prevents you from doing something, it is a very good idea to not do it.

Attempting to MacGyver a solution could work perfectly fine, but the risk is not worth the reward. Keep your DCs free of unnecessary services, like SQL Server and SSRS.