If you’ve ever tried to access \\domain\SYSVOL and got hit with “Access Denied” or found the folder empty, you know the sinking feeling that follows.
When SYSVOL isn’t behaving, Group Policies stop working, logon scripts go missing, and your domain controllers start giving you attitude.
Let’s walk through—step by step—how to fix SYSVOL and replication issues without tearing your hair out.
1. Check if SYSVOL and NETLOGON Shares Exist
Before diving into replication settings, confirm the basics.
Open PowerShell or Command Prompt and type:
net share
You should see:
- SYSVOL
- NETLOGON
If either is missing, it’s a sign of SYSVOL not replicating or never being created.
Inside the SYSVOL folder, you should see:
- A Policies folder
- A scripts folder
- Several folders with long GUID names (your Group Policy Objects)
If these are missing, we’re officially in “fix replication” territory.
2. Check Domain Controller Replication
SYSVOL replication issues are a common cause of missing files or outdated GPOs.
In DFS-R environments (modern Windows Server):
- Open Event Viewer and check for Event ID 2213 — it means replication is paused after an unexpected shutdown.
- Resume replication using WMI or PowerShell.
- On the problem DC, run:
dfsrdiag pollad
If it works, you’ll eventually see Event ID 4604 (replication successful) replication is working again” message.
3. Decide Between Authoritative or Non-Authoritative Sync
This is like asking, “Whose copy of SYSVOL are we trusting?”
- Authoritative Sync (D4) → “My copy is correct, overwrite everyone else.”
- Non-Authoritative Sync (D2) → “I’m outdated, please overwrite me with the good copy.”
Only use D4 if you are certain your SYSVOL content is correct — you can overwrite good data with bad if you’re wrong.
4. Fix SYSVOL Permissions
Sometimes SYSVOL is healthy but you just don’t have the right access.
Share Permissions:
- Everyone → Read
- Administrators → Full Control
NTFS Permissions:
- SYSTEM, Domain Admins, Enterprise Admins → Full Control
- Authenticated Users → Read or Read/Execute
After changes, either log out and back in or run:
klist purge
to refresh Kerberos tickets.
5. Check Overall DC Health
A domain controller with other issues will cause SYSVOL headaches.
Run:
dcdiag
repadmin /replsum
This checks replication, DNS, and AD health.
Also ensure:
- DC clocks are synced (within 5 minutes)
- Firewalls allow AD replication ports
6. For Older FRS Replication
If you’re still using FRS (common in old Server 2003/2008 setups):
- Stop NTFRS service on all DCs.
- On the good DC → set
Burflags = D4. - On problem DCs → set
Burflags = D2. - Start NTFRS again.
- Watch Event Viewer for 13516 (replication started successfully).
7. Access Denied via UNC Path
If you can access SYSVOL locally but not via \\DC\SYSVOL:
- Don’t disable IPv6 (it’s required by AD).
- Avoid turning off SMB signing unless troubleshooting security issues.
- Check firewalls and GPO restrictions.
Quick Troubleshooting Table
| Problem | Fix |
|---|---|
| Missing SYSVOL/NETLOGON | Run net share, check folder structure |
| Replication paused | Resume via WMI, run dfsrdiag pollad |
| Permissions errors | Reset share & NTFS ACLs |
| DC unhealthy | Use dcdiag, repadmin |
| FRS stuck | Apply Burflags D4/D2 |
Final Thoughts
Fixing SYSVOL and Active Directory replication issues comes down to:
- Confirming the shares exist.
- Making sure they’re replicating.
- Ensuring permissions allow access.
Take it step-by-step, keep an eye on Event Viewer, and your SYSVOL should be back online without a full domain rebuild.