How to fix “The source server is currently rejecting replication requests. [ERROR_DS_DRA_SOURCE_DISABLED (0x2108)]” – Error Code 8456

Overview

In this article, we’ll focus on resolving the issue described as: “The source server is currently rejecting replication requests. [ERROR_DS_DRA_SOURCE_DISABLED (0x2108)]”. This error, identified by the error code Error Code 8456, can impede your system’s performance, and here’s how you can fix it.

Identifying the Problem

Error Code 8456 typically arises when a replication attempt is made to transfer data from a source server to a destination server. This process may be blocked due to various reasons, including issues with the source server, network connectivity, or configuration errors.

Common Fixes

1. Restart the Source Server

Restarting the source server can often resolve temporary issues that might be causing the replication to fail.

2. Check Network Connectivity

Ensure that the network connection between the source and destination servers is stable. Test the connection using commands like ping or tracert.

3. Disable Firewall

Temporarily disable the Firewall on both the source and destination servers to rule out any potential interference from firewall rules.

4. Reset DNS

Flush the DNS cache on both servers using the command ipconfig /flushdns. This will ensure that the servers are using the latest DNS information.

Advanced Troubleshooting

1. Check Replication Status

Use the command repadmin /showrepl on both the source and destination servers to verify the replication status. Look for any errors or warnings that might indicate an underlying issue.

2. Reinitialize Replication

Reinitialize replication on the destination server using the command repadmin /options dst dcname-of-destination delete /replicate. This will recreate the replication link and resolve any corrupted data.

3. Reset DSA Options

Reset the DSA options on the source server using the command dsmo demote <ServerName> -nopartitions. This will recreate the DSA, which can resolve configuration errors that might be preventing replication.

Conclusion

By following the troubleshooting steps outlined in this article, you should be able to resolve Error Code 8456 and restore the proper functioning of replication in your system. To prevent this error in the future, ensure regular maintenance of your servers, including timely updates, security patches, and monitoring of network connectivity.