DP-3001: Migrate SQL Server workload to Azure SQL

Course Description

Modernize your database infrastructure by migrating SQL Server workloads to Azure SQL. In this one-day, instructor-led course, you'll learn how to assess on-premises SQL Server environments, choose between IaaS and PaaS migration paths, and execute migrations to Azure SQL Database, Managed Instance, or SQL Server on Azure VMs. You'll also explore post-migration operations like disaster recovery, performance monitoring, and security—all optimized for seamless cloud transition.

Target Audience

Ideal for:

• Database Administrators (DBAs), Data Engineers, and Azure Database Specialists

• IT professionals looking to modernize on-premises SQL Server workloads with Azure SQL services

Prerequisites:

• Experience administering SQL Server databases

• Familiarity with Azure concepts—subscriptions, networking, security, storage

• Understanding of SQL Server editions and compatibility requirements

Course Outline

Module1: Design a SQL Server Migration Strategy

• Explore data platform modernization and define migration phases

• Assess business requirements to select the right migration path—IaaS vs PaaS

• Plan migration based on downtime, scalability, and architecture needs

Module2: Assess SQL Server Databases for Migration

• Use tools such as Azure SQL Migration Extension and Database Migration Assistant

• Leverage Azure Migrate to identify compatibility issues and migration blockers

• Generate actionable reports to guide migration decisions

Module3: Deploy IaaS-Based Azure SQL Solutions

• Size and configure SQL Server on Azure VMs with appropriate compute, storage, and HA

• Evaluate IaaS versus PaaS trade-offs for performance and administrative control

Module4: Deploy PaaS-Based Azure SQL Solutions

• Provision Azure SQL Database, Elastic Pools, Hyperscale, and SQL Managed Instance

• Examine deployment options including Azure SQL Edge for edge use cases

Module5: Migrate to SQL Server on Azure VMs

• Migrate databases using Azure Data Studio Migration Extension and Data Migration Assistant

• Explore native backup/restore, availability groups, and alternate migration approaches

Module6: Migrate to Azure SQL Database

• Execute online or offline migrations using BACPAC, transactional replication, or DMA

• Choose the right Azure SQL tier based on workload and business needs

Module7: Migrate to Azure SQL Managed Instance

• Use Log Replay Service and MI Link for near-zero downtime migrations

• Understand data movement, cross-instance linking, and downtime reduction strategies

Module8: Perform Post-Migration Tasks

• Migrate logins and security principals

• Configure HA/DR with geo-replication and automated backups

• Monitor performance, enable compliance controls, and automate routine tasks

Hands-On Experience

Approximately 40–50% of the class time is devoted to practical, scenario-driven exercises. Participants will perform compatibility assessments, deploy Azure SQL platforms, migrate databases across target platforms, configure failover and security, and monitor cloud database operations.

Skills You’ll Gain

By completing DP3001, you will be able to:

• Define suitable migration strategies using Azure SQL IaaS and PaaS

• Use migration tools—Azure Data Studio, DMA, Azure Migrate—to assess and execute transfers

• Deploy production-ready Azure SQL environments efficiently

• Execute migrations to Azure SQL Database, Managed Instance, and SQL Server on Azure VMs

• Manage security, performance, backup, and availability post-migration