Overview
Migrating to Azure SQL Managed Instance offers a fully managed SQL Server database engine with near 100% compatibility with SQL Server, allowing you to lift and shift your on-premises SQL Server applications to Azure with minimal changes. This section provides an in-depth look at the planning, execution, and post-migration steps.
Azure SQL Managed Instance is the best destination for new cloud-native applications and modernizing existing applications that require a PaaS database and a high degree of SQL Server compatibility.
Why Migrate to Azure SQL Managed Instance?
- Compatibility: High compatibility with on-premises SQL Server, reducing migration effort.
- Fully Managed: Microsoft handles patching, backups, high availability, and disaster recovery.
- Cost Savings: Reduce operational overhead and potential hardware costs.
- Scalability: Easily scale compute and storage resources up or down as needed.
- Security: Advanced security features and compliance certifications.
Migration Strategies
Several strategies can be employed for migrating to Azure SQL Managed Instance. The best approach depends on your downtime tolerance, database size, and network bandwidth.
1. Online Migration
This method minimizes downtime by keeping the source database online during migration. It's ideal for mission-critical applications.
Step 1: Discovery & Assessment
Use tools like Azure Data Migration Assistant (DMA) to assess compatibility and identify potential issues.
Step 2: Provision Azure SQL Managed Instance
Set up your target Azure SQL Managed Instance environment, including networking and security configurations.
Step 3: Initial Data Load
Perform an initial load of your database to Azure SQL Managed Instance. Tools like Azure Database Migration Service (DMS) are highly recommended.
Step 4: Continuous Synchronization
DMS synchronizes ongoing changes from the source to the target. Monitor replication lag.
Step 5: Cutover
Schedule a brief downtime window to stop application traffic, perform a final sync, and redirect applications to Azure SQL Managed Instance.
2. Offline Migration
This strategy involves taking your database offline during the entire migration process. It's simpler and suitable for applications with flexible downtime windows.
Step 1: Backup Source Database
Take a full backup of your on-premises SQL Server database.
Step 2: Restore to Azure SQL Managed Instance
Restore the backup file to your Azure SQL Managed Instance. You can use shared storage or Azure Blob Storage.
Step 3: Reconfigure Applications
Update connection strings and reconfigure your applications to point to the new Azure SQL Managed Instance.
Step 4: Test and Go Live
Thoroughly test your applications and then make them live.
Key Tools and Services
Leverage the following Azure services and tools to facilitate your migration:
- Azure Database Migration Service (DMS): A fully managed service that enables seamless migrations from multiple database sources to Azure data platforms.
- Azure Data Migration Assistant (DMA): Helps assess databases for migration and identifies compatibility issues and feature parity recommendations.
- SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS): For performing database backups and restores.
- Azure Blob Storage: For storing database backup files.
Additional Resources
Get Started Today
Ready to leverage the power and flexibility of Azure SQL Managed Instance? Start planning your migration today and unlock the benefits of a fully managed cloud database solution.
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