Error Message When Opening or Editing a Domain Group Policy Object (257435)

SYMPTOMS

When you attempt to open or edit a domain Group Policy Object (GPO) on a computer running Windows 2000 Server, you may receive the following error message:

The domain controller for Group Policy operations is not available. You may cancel this operation for this session or retry using one of the following domain controller choices:

The one with the Operations Master token for the PDC emulator

The one used by the Active Directory Snap-ins

Use any available domain controller

If you choose any of these options, you may receive the following error message:

Failed to find a domain controller. There may be a policy that prevents you from selecting another domain controller.

CAUSE

This behavior can occur if either of the following conditions exists:

File and Printer Sharing for Microsoft Networks is not enabled on the domain controller.
The TCP/IP NetBIOS Helper service is disabled.

RESOLUTION

To resolve this behavior, use one of the following methods.

Enable File and Printer Sharing

Click Start, point to Settings, click Control Panel, and then click Select Network and Dial-up Connections.
Right-click Local Area Connection, and then click Properties.
Click File and Printer Sharing for Microsoft Networks, and then click OK.

NOTE: If File and Printer Sharing for Microsoft Networks is not listed, click Install, and then click Service. Click Add, and then click File and Printer Sharing for Microsoft Networks.

Enable the TCP/IP NetBIOS Service

Enable the TCP/IP NetBIOS Service, and then restart the domain controller.