XCON: Message Transfer Agent Shuts Down with Event ID 155 (273571)



The information in this article applies to:

  • Microsoft Exchange 2000 Server

This article was previously published under Q273571

SYMPTOMS

The Microsoft Exchange Server Message Transfer Agent (MTA) service stops unexpectedly, and an event similar to the following may be logged in the application event log:

Event Type: Error
Event Source: MSExchangeMTA
Event Category: Directory Access
Event ID: 155
Date: 9/7/2000
Time: 2:28:49 AM
User: N/A
Computer: WSILVER-MSG-01
Description:
An error occurred while reading information for directory name (DN) from the directory. [MTA XFER-IN 11 38] (12)

CAUSE

This event can be logged because the MTA service is temporarily unable to contact a domain controller (DC). The MTA service shuts itself down in this situation to avoid problems, such as mail loss, that could occur because of its inability to contact a DC.

WORKAROUND

A possible workaround for this behavior is to have the MTA service restart automatically after an unsuccessful attempt. You can set up recovery actions through the Services Microsoft Management Console (MMC).

To set up recovery actions, which will take place when a service is not successful, follow these steps:
  1. To open the Services MMC, click Start, click Run, enter Services.msc, and then click OK.
  2. Right-click the service for which you want to set up recovery actions, and then click Properties.
  3. On the Recovery tab, click the actions you want to use in the First attempt, Second attempt, and Subsequent attempts list boxes.

STATUS

Microsoft has confirmed that this is a problem in Microsoft Exchange 2000 Server.

MORE INFORMATION

During normal operation, the MTA service makes calls by using the dsaccess call to access the DC for configuration information on users, MTAs, and gateways.

Modification Type:MinorLast Reviewed:4/25/2005
Keywords:kbbug kbfix KB273571