Upgrading SQL Server from On-Prem to AWS EC2: The Ultimate DBA Checklist

Introduction

Upgrading SQL Server from an older on-premises version to a higher version on AWS EC2 is a critical and complex task for any Database Administrator (DBA). It requires careful planning, execution, and validation to ensure minimal downtime and data integrity. This essay outlines the essential checklists that every DBA should follow to guarantee a smooth migration. We will discuss why each checklist is necessary, where and when to use it, and how it helps streamline the upgrade process.

1. Pre-Migration Assessment Checklist

Why Use This Checklist?

Before initiating the upgrade, a thorough assessment of the existing SQL Server environment is crucial. This step helps identify potential compatibility issues, hardware constraints, and performance bottlenecks.

Where and When to Use It?

This checklist should be used in the planning phase, ideally weeks before the actual migration, to ensure all dependencies are identified and resolved.

How to Use It?

• Inventory of Current Environment: Document all SQL Server instances, databases, and their configurations.

• Compatibility Check: Use the SQL Server Data Migration Assistant (DMA) to identify deprecated features and compatibility issues.

• Resource Utilization Analysis: Monitor CPU, memory, disk space, and IOPS usage to ensure the new EC2 instance is adequately sized.

• Network Latency Check: Evaluate the connectivity between on-premises and AWS EC2 to minimize disruptions.

2. AWS EC2 Instance Selection and Configuration Checklist

Why Use This Checklist?

Choosing the right AWS EC2 instance type and configuration ensures optimal performance and cost efficiency.

Where and When to Use It?

This checklist should be used before provisioning the EC2 instance to avoid resource misallocation and performance bottlenecks.

How to Use It?

• Instance Type Selection: Choose an instance optimized for SQL Server, such as R5 or M5 series.

• Storage Configuration: Select Amazon EBS volumes with Provisioned IOPS (io1 or io2) for high performance.

• Networking Considerations: Enable Enhanced Networking and configure security groups for database access.

• Operating System and Licensing: Determine whether to use AWS-provided SQL Server AMI or bring your own license (BYOL).

3. Backup and Disaster Recovery Checklist

Why Use This Checklist?

Backups ensure data safety in case of migration failure. A well-documented disaster recovery plan minimizes downtime.

Where and When to Use It?

Use this checklist just before initiating the migration to have a rollback plan in place.

How to Use It?

• Full Database Backup: Take a full backup of all databases and store them securely.

• Transaction Log Backup: Ensure point-in-time recovery by backing up transaction logs.

• Verify Backup Integrity: Use RESTORE VERIFYONLY to confirm backup validity.

• Snapshot and AMI Backup: Take an AWS EC2 snapshot and AMI backup for quick restoration.

4. Database Migration Strategy Checklist

Why Use This Checklist?

A well-defined migration strategy reduces downtime and ensures a seamless transition.

Where and When to Use It?

This checklist should be finalized before the actual migration process begins.

How to Use It?

• Lift-and-Shift: Use AWS Server Migration Service (SMS) to move the entire server.

• Backup and Restore: Restore database backups from on-premises to EC2.

• Replication: Use transactional replication for near-zero downtime migration.

• Log Shipping: Ensure continuous sync until the final cutover.

5. SQL Server Installation and Configuration Checklist

Why Use This Checklist?

Proper installation and configuration prevent performance and security issues.

Where and When to Use It?

Use this checklist while setting up SQL Server on the new EC2 instance.

How to Use It?

• Install the Right SQL Server Version: Ensure compatibility with application requirements.

• Configure TempDB: Optimize TempDB with multiple data files.

• Enable SQL Server Authentication: Set up mixed authentication mode if required.

• Configure SQL Server Agent: Ensure jobs and alerts are correctly migrated.

6. Post-Migration Validation Checklist

Why Use This Checklist?

Validation ensures the new environment functions correctly without data loss.

Where and When to Use It?

Use this checklist immediately after the migration process.

How to Use It?

• Data Consistency Checks: Compare row counts between on-premises and AWS.

• Application Connectivity Tests: Verify application connections to the new database.

• Performance Benchmarking: Run performance tests using Query Store.

• Error Log Review: Check SQL Server logs for migration-related errors.

7. Performance Tuning Checklist

Why Use This Checklist?

Optimizing performance ensures the new environment operates efficiently.

Where and When to Use It?

This checklist should be used after migration and periodically thereafter.

How to Use It?

• Index and Statistics Update: Rebuild indexes and update statistics.

• Query Optimization: Identify slow queries using execution plans.

• Memory and CPU Allocation: Adjust based on workload demands.

• Disk I/O Monitoring: Optimize storage performance for best results.

8. Security and Compliance Checklist

Why Use This Checklist?

Ensuring security prevents unauthorized access and meets regulatory requirements.

Where and When to Use It?

This checklist should be implemented immediately after migration and reviewed periodically.

How to Use It?

• Apply Security Patches: Keep SQL Server updated with the latest patches.

• Set Up AWS Security Groups: Restrict database access to authorized IPs.

• Enable Transparent Data Encryption (TDE): Encrypt sensitive data.

• Monitor Access Logs: Use AWS CloudTrail and SQL Server Audit Logs.

9. High Availability and Disaster Recovery Checklist

Why Use This Checklist?

Ensuring high availability minimizes downtime in case of failure.

Where and When to Use It?

This checklist should be implemented post-migration.

How to Use It?

• Set Up Always On Availability Groups: Ensure high availability.

• Configure Multi-AZ Deployments: Reduce risk of single point of failure.

• Automate Backups with AWS Backup: Ensure data recoverability.

• Test Failover Scenarios: Simulate failures to confirm redundancy.

Conclusion

Upgrading SQL Server from an on-premises environment to AWS EC2 is a meticulous process that requires extensive planning and execution. Following these checklists helps DBAs navigate each stage of migration efficiently, ensuring high availability, security, and performance in the cloud environment. By adhering to these best practices, organizations can leverage the full potential of AWS EC2 for their SQL Server workloads.