DFS referral order ignores local site target

Scenario

Users in a branch open the namespace, but referrals send them to a remote server first.

Recommended Resolution Path

1. Verify target priority and site costing in DFS namespace settings.
2. Check AD site mappings and whether the client IP belongs to the expected subnet.
3. Compare referral results from a client in the branch and a client at headquarters.
4. Document the namespace design so target ordering stays intentional.

Technician Notes

Capture the exact scope of impact, confirm which dependency failed first, and document whether the issue reflects broader domain or server drift.