Databases & Data Storage
Data Migration
Definition
Data migration is the process of transferring data from one storage system, data format, or computer system to another. This can involve moving from an old database to a new one, or from an on-premises server to a cloud-based database.
Why It Matters
Data migration is a common but complex and risky process in IT. It is a necessary part of upgrading systems, consolidating data, or moving to the cloud. Careful planning and execution are required to ensure no data is lost or corrupted.
Contextual Example
A company is upgrading from an old version of SQL Server to a newer version. They perform a data migration to move all the data from the old database to the new one, followed by extensive testing to ensure everything works correctly.
Common Misunderstandings
- This is different from a "database migration" in the context of schema changes, which refers to managing incremental changes to the database structure.
- A large-scale data migration project often involves significant downtime if not planned carefully.