Fix Transaction Coordinator Error on Server 2003 SP2

Resolving Transaction Errors in ASP Applications on Windows Server 2003 SP2

Users of classic ASP applications hosted on Windows Server 2003 may encounter the error message "New transaction cannot enlist in the specified transaction coordinator. [-2147168246]" following an upgrade to Service Pack 2.

This issue stems from a configuration within the Microsoft Distributed Transaction Coordinator (MSDTC). Specifically, the upgrade process can alter the authentication requirement for distributed transactions.

Correcting the MSDTC Configuration

To address this error, access the Component Services administration tool. Locate the "My Computer" icon within Component Services and select its properties via a right-click action.

Navigate to the "MSDTC" tab. At the bottom of this tab, you will find and click the "Security Configuration" button.

Within the Security Configuration window, modify the setting under "Transaction Manager Communication". Change this setting to "No Authentication Required".

• This adjustment disables the authentication requirement for transactions.
• It allows transactions to proceed without failing due to authentication issues.

Implementing this change should effectively resolve the reported error.

Firewall Considerations

If a firewall exists between your web server and database server, additional configuration may be necessary. Ensure that high ports are open for communication between these two machines.

Furthermore, verify that Remote Procedure Call (RPC) traffic is permitted through the firewall. Restrictions on RPC can also manifest as the same transaction enlistment error.

Important: Properly configuring firewall rules is crucial for maintaining both security and application functionality.