Migrating a SQL Server instance involves moving databases and settings from one server to another. This process could be part of a hardware upgrade, moving to a new environment, or transitioning to a new SQL Server version.
Here's a checklist to guide you through the SQL Server migration process:
**1. Assessment and Planning:**
- Identify the goals and reasons for migration.
- Document the existing SQL Server environment, including configurations, databases, and settings.
- Review system requirements for the new SQL Server version.
- Assess potential challenges and risks.
**2. Backup and Disaster Recovery:**
- Perform a full backup of all user databases.
- Backup system databases (master, model, msdb).
- Document and test the disaster recovery plan.
**3. Create a Migration Plan:**
- Outline the step-by-step migration process.
- Identify downtime requirements and plan for minimal disruption.
- Define rollback procedures in case of issues during migration.
**4. Install SQL Server on the New Server:**
- Install the desired version of SQL Server on the new server.
- Apply the latest service packs and cumulative updates.
**5. Configure the New Server:**
- Set server configurations, including instance settings and security.
- Configure SQL Server Agent, linked servers, and other components.
**6. Database Migration:**
- Copy user databases from the old server to the new server.
- Consider using backup and restore, detach and attach, or database mirroring for migration.
- Verify the integrity of the migrated databases.
**7. Migrate System Databases:**
- Migrate system databases (master, model, msdb).
- Recreate logins and jobs on the new server.
**8. Update Connection Strings and Application Configurations:**
- Update connection strings in applications to point to the new SQL Server instance.
- Modify configurations in applications that reference the old server.
**9. Test Applications:**
- Conduct thorough testing of applications to ensure compatibility with the new SQL Server environment.
- Verify that stored procedures, queries, and other database interactions work as expected.
**10. Update DNS and Network Configurations:**
- Update DNS records if applicable.
- Update any network configurations or firewall rules to reflect the new server.
**11. Monitor and Optimize Performance:**
- Monitor server performance after migration.
- Optimize queries and configurations as needed.
**12. Update Documentation:**
- Update documentation to reflect the changes in the SQL Server environment.
- Document new configurations, settings, and any modifications made during the migration.
**13. Backup and Monitor Regularly:**
- Establish a new backup routine on the new server.
- Implement a monitoring system to track server performance and issues.
**14. Update Maintenance Plans and Jobs:**
- Review and update SQL Server Agent jobs, maintenance plans, and other scheduled tasks.
**15. Communicate with Stakeholders:**
- Notify relevant stakeholders about the completion of the migration.
- Provide information on any changes or actions required on their part.
**16. Perform Post-Migration Checks:**
- Conduct post-migration checks to ensure data integrity, security, and overall system stability.
**17. Decommission the Old Server:**
- Once confident in the new server's stability, decommission the old server.
**18. Documentation and Knowledge Transfer:**
- Update documentation to include any lessons learned during the migration.
- Transfer knowledge to relevant team members who will be responsible for ongoing support.
Remember that each migration scenario is unique, and you may need to adapt this checklist based on your specific requirements and constraints. Always refer to the official documentation for the version of SQL Server you are working with for any additional considerations or changes in the migration process.
