Migration and Modernization: Unlocking Value by Migrating On-Premises Databases to Azure

ROI and Cost Optimization

Real Business Value

Migrating to Azure SQL Managed Instance and Azure SQL Database can yield impressive returns. Organizations can expect up to a 406 percent return on investment over three years. Additionally, a 30-percent reduction in total cost of ownership (TCO) over five years translates to significant savings. For instance, protecting an additional $6.85 million in annual revenue becomes feasible.

Windows Server and SQL Server Workloads

A separate study found that migrating both Windows Server and SQL Server workloads to Azure generates even more value. By optimizing costs, operations, and business opportunities, companies gained $15.85 million in total annual benefits. Simultaneously, IT (Information Technology) security efficiency increased by 43 percent through cloud tools and automation.

Streamlined Productivity and Innovation

A Smooth Path to Migration

Migrating to a cloud platform is a critical step toward modernization. Azure SQL’s unique feature is that it’s built on the same engine, regardless of deployment location. This consistency allows DBAs to leverage their existing SQL experience while benefiting from Azure’s layered security, intelligent threat detection, and robust data encryption.

Azure SQL Managed Instance: Next-Gen GP

For those seeking the full Platform as a Service (PaaS) experience, Azure SQL Managed Instance offers significantly improved performance and scalability. It empowers mission-critical SQL workloads, making it an attractive option for DBAs aiming to modernize their infrastructure.

Edge Computing and Centrally Managed Benefits

Azure also provides hybrid solutions that bridge on-premises and cloud resources. Whether it’s Azure Virtual Machines or Azure Stack HCI, DBAs can choose the right approach for their specific needs. Edge computing capabilities further enhance agility, enabling data processing closer to the source.

Benefits

Migrating SQL Server databases from on-premises to the Azure cloud offers several compelling benefits:

1. Cost Savings: By moving to Azure, you can reduce capital expenses associated with hardware, storage, and network infrastructure.
2. Operational Efficiency: Azure SQL Database eliminates the need for managing physical servers, maintenance, and upgrades. This streamlines operations, allowing DBAs to focus on higher-value tasks.
3. Agility and Scalability: Azure provides flexible scaling options. You can easily adjust resources based on workload demands, ensuring optimal performance without overprovisioning.
4. Improved Time to Value: Migrating to Azure enables faster development and deployment of applications.

Moving SQL Server databases to Azure cloud enhances cost-effectiveness, agility, and overall operational efficiency.

Conclusion

In summary, migrating on-premises databases to Azure is more than a technical shift—it’s a strategic move that unlocks value. DBAs can achieve cost savings, enhance security, and position themselves for future innovations. So, embrace the cloud, automate tasks, and propel your organization toward a more efficient and resilient future.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. What kind of return on investment (ROI) can I expect from migrating to Azure?

Migrating to Azure SQL Managed Instance and Azure SQL Database can deliver significant financial value. Organizations can see up to a 406% return on investment over three years. Additionally, moving to Azure can reduce your total cost of ownership (TCO) by 30% over five years, helping you avoid capital expenses related to physical hardware and maintenance.

2. Will my team need to learn a completely new database engine?

No. One of the biggest advantages of Azure SQL is that it is built on the same engine as the SQL Server you use on-premises. This consistency allows your DBAs to leverage their existing SQL Server experience and skills while gaining access to modern cloud features like intelligent threat detection and automated updates.

3. What is Azure SQL Managed Instance, and when should I use it?

Azure SQL Managed Instance is a “Platform as a Service” (PaaS) option designed for mission-critical workloads. It is ideal if you want to modernize your infrastructure with improved performance and scalability without managing the underlying hardware. It offers a fully managed experience that handles patching, backups, and high availability automatically.

4. Is it possible to keep some workloads on-premises while using Azure?

Yes. Azure offers robust hybrid solutions that bridge your on-premises and cloud environments. Tools like Azure Stack HCI and Azure Virtual Machines allow you to maintain a flexible infrastructure that suits your specific needs, including edge computing capabilities that process data closer to the source for better agility.

5. How does migrating to Azure affect security?

Migration significantly enhances your security posture. Studies show that IT security efficiency can increase by 43% through the use of cloud tools and automation. Azure provides layered security, robust data encryption, and intelligent threat detection to protect your data more effectively than traditional on-premises solutions.