Data Migration to Azure: Benefits and How To Migrate

Microsoft’s Azure cloud platform has firmly established its name among the leading cloud computing solutions in the market. You might be aware Microsoft Azure is a popular cloud platform that includes IaaS computing infrastructure solutions. It is with a variety of services and tools for developing cloud applications, machine learning, blockchain, CDN, data management, and much more.

Interestingly, the service was launched in 2010 and now covers 55 regions and 140 countries. And, in total, about 600 services help make the transition as simple as possible for the business with Azure data migration tools. Azure migration refers to the process of transferring the company’s infrastructure and data. It is across physical servers to the cloud while they are available 24/7 providing stable access to all services.

Given its popularity, a rapidly growing number of companies are considering Azure migration and if you are considering it too, here are some of Azure’s key benefits to get you started:

1. Security: Azure scores top points in this department because all data stored on the platform is protected through a Service License Agreement as well as an agreement with the cloud provider. This means companies do not have to fret about data leaks and other such threats.

2. Speed: Azure empowers companies to configure services and deploy environments in the cloud platform in practically no time.

3. Cost reduction: Budgets are, of course, one of the primary considerations for any company, no matter the scale of their operations or the industry in which they operate. In this regard, moving the company’s IT infrastructure to the cloud delivers the incredible benefit of complete control over the cost. This means the company only has to pay a subscription fee for the cloud service, thus allowing the business to go from capital costs to operating costs.

Finally, let us also take a quick look at the process of migrating to Azure cloud:

1. Choose migration method: The first step on the journey of migrating to Azure cloud is deciding which migration process, offline or online, you will use. The offline method involves the use of the Azure Data Box devices to move extensive amounts of data to Azure, irrelevant network availability, costs, or timelines. Whereas the online method leverages the network for data migration, using either Azure ExpressRoute or the public internet.

2. Automate database migration: One of the key steps involved in the process of migrating to Azure cloud is the migration of the company’s existing databases to the cloud platform. While the phased manual database migration process is an option, experts advise using tools such as PowerShell which is a task automation and configuration management solution. These tools automate the database migration process, thus helping you save a whole lot of effort, time, and resources.

3. Manage and track: Once you are on the precipice of completing the migration process, it is time to take a look at the appropriate management and monitoring systems. It is imperative to ensure that these systems are configured and ready to go right along with the migration phase to ensure that you can quickly address any issues or challenges that may arise during the migration without taking a toll on your regular business processes.

As the need for digital transformation continues to grow at a rapid pace, cloud computing will become more and more prevalent. This is because modern cloud solutions such as Azure, empower companies with myriad benefits such as enhanced security for their data, improved efficiency across operations, etc. Not only that, the Azure cloud also helps businesses stay ahead of the curve and be always prepared to adapt to the changes demanded by the market as well as their customers.

Now that you know how much you stand to benefit from Azure cloud migration, you can start considering your next steps. And while you consider your strategy for migration to Azure cloud, we recommend also engaging the services of an expert whose skills and experience will ease the process for your organization.