Migrating SQL Server 2016 to Azure is not just a lift-and-shift process; it’s a structured transition that requires environmental readiness, clear planning, and optimization at every phase. This section walks through available migration models, recommended Microsoft and third-party tools, detailed migration steps, and tuning best practices that ensure long-term success in the cloud.
Azure SQL hosting options
Understanding which Azure hosting model fits your business needs is foundational. Below is a breakdown of the three primary choices:
1. Azure Virtual Machines (IaaS)
- Ideal for teams that want to replicate their on-prem SQL Server instance in Azure with minimal changes.
- Full control over OS, instance configuration, and patching.
- Supports legacy features, SQL Agent, and custom configurations.
- Best for: Organizations needing quick rehosting or with complex server-level dependencies.
2. Azure SQL Managed Instance (PaaS+)
- Closer to a lift-and-shift experience with most SQL Server features intact.
- Supports cross-database transactions, SQL Server Agent, and linked servers.
- Reduces maintenance overhead—Microsoft handles backups, patching, and HA.
- Best for: Workloads needing broader SQL feature compatibility, but with the benefits of managed infrastructure.
3. Azure SQL Database (PaaS)
- Cloud-native and optimized for modern apps.
- Limited feature parity compared to on-prem SQL (e.g., no cross-database queries).
- Elastic scaling, AI-driven performance tuning, and multi-tenant architecture.
- Best for: SaaS platforms, microservices, and greenfield development projects.
Microsoft and ecosystem partners provide a suite of migration tools—each with specific use cases and strengths:
Step-by-step Azure migration flow
Use this process to navigate your SQL Server 2016 transition securely and efficiently.
1. Assessment and Planning
- Run DMA to detect deprecated features or unsupported items.
- Use Azure Migrate to assess server dependencies and right-size resources.
- Determine the best target model (VM, Managed Instance, or SQL DB).
2. Environment Preparation
- Set up the target Azure environment—configure networking, access control, and backup policies.
- Plan for network bandwidth and downtime windows.
- Establish rollback and contingency procedures.
3. Schema and Data Migration
- Use DMS or BACPAC to move schema, tables, procedures, and data.
- For large or business-critical environments, schedule a staged migration using DMS in hybrid mode.
4. Application Reconnection
- Redirect app connection strings to the new environment.
- Validate security groups, credentials, and firewall settings.
5. Testing and Validation
- Validate data integrity, permissions, performance, and third-party integrations.
- Conduct UAT (User Acceptance Testing) with business units if applicable.
6. Optimization and Go-Live
- Run post-migration tuning (see below).
- Monitor closely during the first 72 hours of live usage.
Post-migration SQL optimization essentials
Once your data lands in Azure, you are not done. Cloud environments benefit greatly from proactive tuning. Here’s where to focus:
- Index Review: Rebuild or reorganize fragmented indexes after data movement.
- Query Performance: Analyze long-running queries using Query Store or Azure SQL Insights.
- DTU/CPU Scaling: Adjust compute tiers based on usage trends.
- Telemetry Setup: Enable Azure Monitor, Log Analytics, and SQL Alerts.
- High Availability (HA): Implement Auto-failover groups or Zone-redundant deployments.