WINS replication is the process of copying updated WINS data from one WINS server to other WINS servers in a network to synchronize the data.

Replication of WINS databases ensures that a name which is registered with one server gets replicated to other WINS servers on the network. With the use of replication between different WINS server, a particular set of information on WINS is maintained and distributed all over the network. As a result, a WINS client can resolve any NetBIOS name in the network, regardless of the WINS server on which the name was registered.

Replication Partners

If a network has multiple WINS servers, you should configure all WINS servers as a either a pull partner, a push partner, or a push/pull partner with at least one or other WINS server. The default configuration for WINS replication partners is the push/pull replication type. However, you can modify this configuration to meet the needs of your network environment.How WINS Replication works

Procedure for Configuring WINS Replication

To configure WINS replication:

  1. In the options of WINS console tree, select the WINS server for which you want to add a replication partner, and click replication partners.
  2. On action menu, click on the new replication partner.
  3. In the WINS server field, type the computer name to WINS server IP address which you need to select as a replication partner.
  4. Click OK.

Procedure for Modifying a Replication Partner Type

To modify a WINS replication partner type:

  1. In the options of WINS console tree, expand the WINS server.
  2. In the WINS console, click replication partners.
  3. In details pane, select and right click the appropriate server, and then click properties.
  4. In the server properties dialog box, on the advanced tab, in the replication partner type field, select one of the following options.
  5. Push: Reconfigure push partner properties that this server will use at the time of replication to any new added push partners.
  6. Pull: Reconfigure pull partner properties that this server will use at the time of replication to any new added pull partners.
  7. Push/Pull: Reconfigure as both a push partner properties and pull partner.
  8. In the server properties dialog box, click OK.
  9. Close the WINS console.