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A growing business like yours cannot afford a system slowdown. A minute of downtime can cost lost sales and unhappy clients. According to a 2024 study by Enterprise Management Associates (EMA) for BigPanda, the average cost of downtime was $14,056 per minute. Move your data, schema, and objects from multiple databases to the cloud to reduce these risks. With database migration, you can also improve your speed, security, and ability to expand. Moving to Azure makes this possible by giving you better performance, stronger protection, and the flexibility to grow. Our Azure migration services support businesses in making this shift.
Database migration to Azure rarely follows a linear path. Many businesses begin with Azure data migration as part of their modernization strategy. Every database setup is different due to the variable nature of data. It makes the migration process complex. The right approach for database migration depends on factors like the size and complexity of a database, how much uptime you need, and the budget.
The 7R approach in database migration refers to seven common strategies for moving applications and data to the cloud. Because no single approach fits every case, here are 7Rs of migration approach to choose from.
- Rehosting for quick database migrations
- Re-platforming for making small changes in database
- Rearchitecting for better reliability and scalability
- Rebuilding for creating cloud-first applications from scratch
- Repurchasing with SaaS solutions to replace old systems
- Retiring outdated workloads to save costs
- Retaining critical systems with a hybrid setup
A structured path through the 7Rs, backed by proven methods and approaches, will help you achieve the best results. Partnering with experts who provide Azure consulting services ensures a smooth and reliable transition through 7Rs.
In this blog post, you will see the best practices for a successful database migration to Azure. We will explore the why, when, and how of database migration to Azure.
Why move your database to Azure?
Managing an on-premises database requires overseeing the entire lifecycle, from installation and configuration to ongoing maintenance. You are also responsible for performance optimization, security, and disaster recovery. On the other hand, Microsoft Azure offers rapid deployment, a flexible pay-as-you-go model, built-in maintenance, and more. It helps your team grow your business.
Below are key drivers of database migration to Azure:
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Scalability:
Azure lets you scale database resources as needed. Hence, you get strong performance during peak times and low costs when demand is low.
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Cost optimization:
A shift from CapEx to OpEx model cuts upfront costs. When you combine options like Azure Hybrid Benefit and Reserved Instances, it further reduces database expenses.
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Security:
Azure is known for its extensive security features. It provides a multi-layered defense across the cloud. It ranges from its physical data centers to customer-deployed workloads.
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Performance and accessibility:
Azure has data centers in over 60 regions. It allows you to deploy applications and data geographically closer to your users. Further, Azure’s software-defined networking helps you deliver content quickly and reliably.
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Business continuity and disaster recovery:
Azure Backup and Azure Site Recovery (ASR) protect critical data and ensure business operations continue during unexpected events like hardware failures, cyberattacks, or natural disasters.
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Innovation and modernization:
Database migration to Azure gives access to Azure Machine Learning, Azure AI Services, Azure Synapse Analytics, and Azure Databricks. The availability of these integrated services provides the necessary infrastructure to drive innovation.
When is database migration to Azure required?
Database migration to Azure is required when organizations modernize their infrastructure, improve business continuity, reduce costs, or gain new technical capabilities. Below are the two primary scenarios:
Data migration from on-premises to Azure cloud
Businesses often require data migration from on premise to Azure cloud when modernizing legacy systems.
A migration from an on-premises database to Azure is common in digital transformation strategies. This allows organizations to modernize their IT, save on costs, and improve agility. Businesses with aging hardware, growing data, and the need for greater flexibility go for such migration.
It includes the migration of databases like SQL Server, Oracle, and MySQL to Azure’s managed services. Organizations also choose to migrate SQL server to Azure when performance and scalability become top priorities. Azure provides services to manage the migration process smoothly and securely. Azure certified partners assess your setup, help you choose the right migration path, and ensure seamless migration.
Data migration from other cloud to Azure
Organizations migrate their databases to Azure from other cloud environments for several reasons. It includes cost optimization, enhanced scalability, security features, integrated DevOps support, disaster recovery and unique Azure features.
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Cost optimization:
Azure Hybrid Benefit allows you to use on-premises Windows Server and SQL Server licenses with Software Assurance on Azure to save on costs. And Azure’s pay-as-you-go model helps you to save on upfront hardware costs.
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Scalability:
Scale database resources to meet your business demands anytime.
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DevOps support:
Adopt DevOps practices with integrated tools. It accelerates application development, deployment, and collaboration.
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Disaster recovery:
One click backup and recovery options protect your data and ensure business continuity.
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Unique Azure features:
Use Azure services like Azure SQL Database, Azure SQL Managed Instance, and Azure Cosmos DB for different database needs. Azure SQL Managed Instance offers near 100% feature parity with SQL Server, gives you enhanced functionality and flexibility.
How to migrate a database to Azure: Best practices
The process of database migration to Azure can involve any of the strategies from the following 7Rs and a series of steps.
The chosen strategy impacts the complexity, downtime, and resource requirements. Organizations go beyond 7Rs to meet their modernization needs.
Best practices for assessment and planning
Before any data movement begins, an assessment of the existing database environment is essential. The following explains what you should assess, how, and why.
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Inventory analysis:
Document all databases, their versions, sizes, configurations, and associated applications. Azure Migrate can speed this up.
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Dependency mapping:
Identify how databases and applications connect to avoid disruptions during migration.
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Performance baseline:
Measure current performance across CPU, storage, memory, and network. And compare it with Azure once migration is complete.
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Compatibility analysis:
Run a quick check with Data Migration Assistant (DMA). It will tell you if your database lines up with Azure services like Azure SQL Database, Azure SQL Managed Instance, or SQL Server on Azure VMs. The assessment will also provide a list of compatibility issues that require resolution before migration.
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Cost estimation:
Try Azure pricing tools to estimate the cost of running database workloads in Azure. The calculation includes licensing, storage, and compute resources.
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Define migration objectives and strategy:
Define why you want to migrate a database. Is it to cut costs, get faster performance, or improve security? Then, decide on the migration approach from 7Rs. The choice of migration approach depends on how important the app is, how complex it is, and how much downtime your business can live with.
Best practices for homogeneous migration
If you move a database from one place to another but both use the same system, that’s called a homogeneous migration.
In SQL Server’s case, migration usually means moving a database into another SQL Server setup. Possible target can be Azure SQL Database, Azure SQL Managed Instance, or SQL Server on an Azure VM. In fact, many enterprises look to migrate SQL database to Azure as part of their cloud-first strategy. Since the platforms are closely aligned, this path is usually less complex.
Where should the database go?
You will need to decide on the right target. While Azure tools take care of upgrades and patching, backups, data availability, performance tuning, and disaster recovery, there are differences in admin tasks and control these tools offer.
| Feature | Azure SQL Database(PaaS) | Azure SQL Managed Instance (PaaS) | SQL Server on Azure VM (IaaS) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Operational responsibility | Very low. Microsoft handles almost everything. | Low. Similar to SQL Database, but with some extra instance-level control. | High. You are responsible for all aspects, including the operating system and SQL Server instance. |
| Control | Less control. Optimized for new cloud applications. | More control. Offers near-100% compatibility with on-premises SQL Server. | Full control. You have root access to the underlying virtual machine. |
| Use case | Best for cloud-native apps that don’t need full compatibility with an on-premises SQL Server. | Ideal for “lift-and-shift” migrations of on-premises applications with minimal changes. | Perfect for applications that require OS-level access or rely on specific SQL Server features. |
Which migration tools make the job easier?
The Azure SQL Migration extension in Azure Data Studio is usually the go-to choice. It runs on top of Azure Database Migration Service (DMS) and guides you step by step. You also get SKU recommendations, so you do not misconfigure the capacity of your Azure target.
Should you choose offline or online migration?
How you migrate a database depends on the downtime your business can handle. With an offline migration, you shut down the database, take a backup, and restore it in Azure. The application comes back online only after you complete the final checks.
Online migration keeps downtime low because data changes are continuously synced while the move is in progress. Azure’s Log Replay Service (LRS) makes this possible by applying transaction logs in the background until both environments are fully aligned.
How should you handle schema and data migration?
The migration occurs in two stages. The first stage involves moving the schema, tables, views, and stored procedures to maintain the database structure. The second stage involves transferring the data. Tools such as the SQL Server dacpac extension or the SQL Database Projects extension in Azure Data Studio provide support for schema migration. Azure Database Migration Service (DMS) can manage schema and data migration together.
What post-migration checks are essential?
Post-migration validation ensures the database is production ready in its new environment. Administrators must recreate logins, users, and roles, refresh statistics, clean up indexes, and run tests to make sure the system behaves as it should. From there, tools like Azure Monitor or Query Performance Insight help you keep an eye on performance and identify issues early.
Best practices for heterogeneous migration
Heterogeneous migration involves moving a database from one engine to another, say from Oracle to Azure SQL Database. It is trickier. The challenge comes from differences in schema, data types, and query languages between the source and target databases. Heterogenous migration is rarely a straight lift-and-shift because compatibility issues require additional preparation.
Where should you start?
The first step is to assess what’s possible. SQL Server Migration Assistant (SSMA) can show you which parts of your schema convert easily and where you can run into problems. This step acts as a feasibility check.
How should you manage schema and data migration?
This step includes converting data types, rewriting stored procedures, and reworking functions to make them compatible with Azure target services. For heavier transformations or continuous data movement, Azure Data Factory (ADF) provides ready-to-use pipelines. These pipelines automate extraction, transformation, and loading (ETL) processes across heterogeneous systems.
What is required for application refactoring and testing?
The database is not the only piece that changes. Your applications may need updates so they can run smoothly on the new database engine. Thorough testing becomes essential at this stage. It’s how you make sure the data remains accurate and the application performs as expected.
Best practices for large-scale data migration
For very large datasets, moving everything over the network may take too long. In those cases, physical data transfer methods or specialized services work better.
How can Azure Data Box support large-scale migration?
Azure offers Data Box, a physical device that you load your data onto and ship back for secure transfer into Azure storage. It’s a good option when you deal with terabytes or petabytes of data and cannot afford long network transfer times.
How can Azure Data Factory (ADF) streamline large-scale migration?
If you handle cloud-based transfers, Azure Data Factory (ADF) is the tool of choice. It does not just move data, it can transform data on the way. With its broad set of connectors, you can pull data from different sources and push everything into Azure in an organized pipeline.
Most frequently used Azure tools for database migration
Microsoft Azure comes with a good set of tools to make database migration easier. Each one serves a different purpose. Some focus on planning and assessment, while others handle the actual move or optimization after the migration.
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Azure Migrate:
Azure Migrate helps you discover what you have on- premises, assess how ready it is for Azure, and get cost estimates. It also maps dependencies and recommends the right Azure target services. Further, it connects with other migration tools, so you can manage everything in one place.
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Azure Database Migration Service (DMS):
DMS is the engine for moving databases to Azure. It supports different sources and can run migrations either offline or online. It handles the complex tasks, such as schema conversion and data movement, which reduces the amount of manual work.
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Data Migration Assistant (DMA):
DMA is your pre-check tool. It scans your SQL Server databases and raises compatibility issues before you start. It also gives recommendations on what needs fixing, so you can do SQL database migration to Azure smoothly.
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SQL Server Migration Assistant (SSMA):
When you move from a different database engine, say Oracle or MySQL, SSMA is the tool to use. It helps with schema conversion, translates database objects, and moves data so your new SQL Server or Azure Synapse setup is ready to go.
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Azure Synapse Pathway:
This tool focuses on modernizing data warehouses. It can translate SQL code from other platforms. Therefore, it runs smoothly on Azure Synapse SQL, saving you a lot of rewriting effort.
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Azure Data Studio with Azure SQL Migration extension:
If you like working inside Azure Data Studio, this extension gives you a guided, wizard-based experience for database migration. It plugs into DMS in the background and supports both online and offline moves. It also offers SKU recommendations, so you do not over- or under-provision.
Our role in your journey of database migration to Azure
Migrating databases to Azure can be challenging, especially for complex or legacy systems. This is where data migration to Azure cloud requires expert guidance. Moreover, many organizations may lack the in-house knowledge, skills, or resources to handle a cloud migration effectively. This is where a service provider, such as a Microsoft Certified Gold Partner like us, can be invaluable. We can:
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Assess your current infrastructure and dependencies:
We can help you by identifying which applications and data are suitable for migration and which require modernization or re-architecture.
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Develop a tailored migration strategy:
This includes choosing the right migration approach (e.g., lift-and-shift, re-platforming, re-architecting), defining a timeline, and planning for minimal disruption.
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Use Azure’s native tools and services effectively:
We can assist you with utilizing tools like Azure Migrate, Azure Site Recovery, and others to maximize efficiency and achieve a seamless transition.
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Manage the migration process end-to-end:
This encompasses tasks such as setting up the Azure environment, migrating virtual machines, databases, and applications, and configuring networking and security settings.
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Provide post-migration support and optimization:
They can help ensure ongoing performance, cost efficiency, security, and compliance after migration.
In essence, Azure provides the technological foundation and tools for simplification, while partnering with experienced professionals can streamline the process, minimize risks, and ensure a successful transition.
Embrace the migration to Azure for data-driven success
By utilizing the cloud’s benefits, organizations can drive innovation, enhance agility, and build a more resilient digital future. It also positions your business to respond faster to changing market demands.
A successful migration goes beyond transferring workloads. It requires alignment between cloud architecture, modernization objectives, and a strategy designed for sustainable growth. With Azure’s toolset and 7Rs of migration approach, backed by specialists, you can minimize risk, accelerate adoption, and realize value faster.
