Sunday 3 December 2023

Checklist for SQL Server Inplace Upgrade

 An in-place upgrade of SQL Server involves upgrading an existing instance of SQL Server to a newer version without changing the instance name, server name, or databases. This process can be complex, and it's essential to follow a checklist to ensure a smooth upgrade. 

Below is a checklist you can use for an in-place upgrade of SQL Server:


**1. Review System Requirements:**

   - Verify that the hardware and operating system meet the requirements of the new SQL Server version.


**2. Backup:**

   - Perform a full backup of all user databases.

   - Take a backup of system databases (master, model, msdb).


**3. Document Configuration:**

   - Document server configurations, including instance settings, linked servers, and SQL Server Agent jobs.


**4. Review Deprecated Features:**

   - Check for any deprecated features in the current version that may not be supported in the new version.


**5. Check for Compatibility Issues:**

   - Use the SQL Server Upgrade Advisor to identify any potential issues with the upgrade.


**6. Stop Non-Essential Services:**

   - Stop any non-essential services or applications that might be accessing the SQL Server instance.


**7. Ensure Sufficient Disk Space:**

   - Verify that there is enough disk space for the upgrade process.


**8. Disable Maintenance Plans and Jobs:**

   - Temporarily disable any maintenance plans and SQL Server Agent jobs.


**9. Review and Update Applications:**

   - Check for compatibility with the new version and update applications if necessary.


**10. Check for Blocking Issues:**

   - Identify and address any long-running or blocking queries before the upgrade.


**11. Ensure Windows and SQL Server Authentication:**

   - Confirm that both Windows and SQL Server authentication modes are enabled.


**12. Check Collation Settings:**

   - Ensure that the collation settings for the new version match the existing settings.


**13. Temporarily Disable SQL Server Agent:**

   - Stop the SQL Server Agent service during the upgrade.


**14. Verify Database Compatibility Level:**

   - Ensure that the compatibility level of all databases is suitable for the new SQL Server version.


**15. Validate Linked Servers:**

   - Confirm that linked servers are working correctly.


**16. Check Resource Usage:**

   - Monitor resource usage on the server and address any performance concerns.


**17. Test the Upgrade in a Staging Environment:**

   - Whenever possible, perform a test upgrade in a staging environment to identify and address potential issues.


**18. Review and Apply Service Packs and Cumulative Updates:**

   - Ensure that the latest service packs and cumulative updates for the current version are applied before starting the upgrade.


**19. Document SQL Server Agent Jobs:**

   - Document SQL Server Agent jobs, including schedules and configurations.


**20. Plan for Downtime:**

   - Schedule the upgrade during a maintenance window to minimize downtime.


**21. Perform the Upgrade:**

   - Run the SQL Server setup program and follow the prompts to perform the in-place upgrade.


**22. Post-Upgrade Testing:**

   - After the upgrade, thoroughly test the SQL Server instance and applications to ensure everything is working as expected.


**23. Monitor Performance:**

   - Monitor the performance of the upgraded instance to identify and address any issues that may arise post-upgrade.


**24. Update Statistics:**

   - Update statistics for all databases.


**25. Update SQL Server Agent Jobs and Maintenance Plans:**

   - Re-enable and update SQL Server Agent jobs and maintenance plans as needed.


**26. Verify Backups:**

   - Confirm that backups are functioning correctly after the upgrade.


**27. Communicate with Stakeholders:**

   - Notify relevant stakeholders about the completion of the upgrade.


Remember that this checklist serves as a general guideline, and you may need to customize it based on your specific environment and requirements. Always refer to the official documentation for the version of SQL Server you are upgrading to for any additional considerations or changes in the upgrade process.

0 comments:

Post a Comment