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Migrating data to the cloud is a strategic move for any business looking to improve performance, security, and scalability. Azure data migration involves selecting and preparing your data and then moving it into Azure.

 

 

In this blog post, we’ll explain Azure’s flexible database management options and best practices for pre-migration assessments using tools like Azure Migrate, Database Migration Assistant, and Database Experimentation Assistant.

 

 

Database Management and Functions with Azure

Managing databases in the cloud requires a flexible, scalable solution that maintains high performance, availability, and security. Azure offers a number of database management options to achieve this aim, whether you’re building cloud-native applications or migrating existing systems.

Azure SQL Database

With Azure SQL Database, you’re always operating on the latest SQL server engine and patched OS, with 99.99% availability. Its PaaS capabilities let you focus on critical database optimization while Microsoft handles maintenance. You can also easily process relational and non-relational data, with leading query processing and in-memory technologies.

Azure SQL Managed Instance

For those who need close compatibility with on-prem SQL, Azure SQL Managed Instance provides a near 100% match to SQL server features. Microsoft takes care of patching and backups, allowing you to focus on high-value database tasks without worrying about infrastructure.

SQL Server on Azure Virtual Machines

When you need complete control, SQL Server on Azure Virtual Machines provides full SQL functionality in the cloud, without maintaining hardware. From flexible licensing to customizable machine sizes, SQL Server VMs allow you to fine-tune performance for any workload, no matter where it’s located.

 

 

Azure Database Migration

Azure Database Migration Service (DMS) simplifies the transition to Azure with a fully managed solution that supports seamless migrations from different sources—with minimal downtime. Whether you’re modernizing SQL databases or shifting legacy systems, DMS helps your data move smoothly through the Azure ecosystem.

Azure SQL Migration

For improved functionality, Azure SQL Migration is available as an extension for Azure Data Studio. You can also access DMS through the Azure portal, PowerShell, and Azure Command-Line Interface (CLI). This can help provide flexibility in how you control and automate migrations.

Azure Command-Line Interface (CLI)

With Azure CLI, you can connect to Azure and manage resources via the command line, which is useful for automating repetitive tasks. You can run interactive commands or streamline operations with scripting.

 

 

The Data Migration Process

Migrating your data to Azure involves a structured process to support a smooth transition.

1. Discovery

This entails a manual look at your environment. You’ll assess how data and systems integrate to get a clear picture of what needs to be migrated and how everything currently operates.

2. Assessment

Here is where you can use automation. Using tools like Azure Migrate, you can gather performance data and receive insights into your data estate. With agent-based collection, Azure automatically compiles essential information for an informed migration.

3. Planning

In the planning phase, you outline every detail of the migration. This includes scripting the process, calculating data sizes, and determining the number of databases involved. You’ll also run tests in a staging environment to make sure the migration runs smoothly. This is an opportunity to identify any issues before they affect your live data.

4. Migration

Once planning is complete, it’s time for the actual migration. Data is transferred from your on-premises or legacy environment to Azure, moving from production to its final state in the cloud.

 

 

 

Reduce the Likelihood of Downtime with These Migration Best Practices When Using the Azure Data Migration Service

To ensure a successful and efficient migration to Azure, here are a few best practices to follow.

Conduct a Pre-Migration Assessment with Azure Migrate

Azure Migrate offers a comprehensive platform for discovering and assessing your on-premises servers, databases, and web applications. When you use this tool, you gain a better understanding of your current environment and can map out a detailed migration strategy.

Assess Database Workloads with Azure Data Studio

Before migrating, use Azure Data Studio to evaluate your current database workloads. This open-source, hybrid tool provides in-depth performance insights, helping you identify the queries, workloads, and processes that are using the most resources.

Use the Database Migration Assistant

The DMA is an essential tool for gathering performance and configuration data from your on-premises SQL Server instances. By running the DMA, you can determine which Azure services (like Azure SQL Database) are best suited for your workloads.

Monitor Performance with Azure SQL Database

Once you’ve migrated your database to Azure, the built-in monitoring tools in Azure SQL Database provide continuous insights into workload performance. The system can help you detect and apply fixes to common performance issues—this way, your applications continue to run efficiently in their new environment.

Use Long-Running Query Insights

With long-running query insights, you can identify queries that are slowing down your system and consuming an excessive number of resources. This feature allows you to analyze how long each query has been running and provides insights into what’s causing the performance bottleneck.

Unlock the Full Potential of Azure

With our expert-guided Azure migration services, transition your infrastructure and your data while optimizing performance, security, and scalability.

From initial assessment to deployment, we create a custom migration roadmap tailored to the way you work. We’re here to provide a smooth, efficient migration that sets you up for long-term success.