DFS namespace opens but referrals target retired file server

Scenario

Users browse the namespace successfully, but folder targets still send them to a decommissioned server.

Recommended Resolution Path

1. Review DFS folder target state and namespace metadata on all namespace servers.
2. Check whether clients cached old referrals beyond the server-side correction.
3. Flush namespace cache on a test client after updating the target list.
4. Document retirement steps so legacy referrals are cleaned during future migrations.

Technician Notes

Document what changed, what confirmed the fix, and whether the issue points to a broader standards gap worth addressing for the client.