What is Database Migration?

Database Migration is the process of transferring definitions(schema) and data from one database management system (DBMS) or database instance to another.

This can involve moving data from one type of database to another (e.g. Oracle to Postgres) or upgrading to a newer version of the same database instance or transferring data between different instances of the same database.

A successful database migration requires careful assessment of source and target systems, including differences in data types, indexing strategies, constraints, stored procedures, and performance characteristics. Compatibility challenges such as SQL syntax differences, transaction handling, and concurrency models must be addressed to avoid functional issues after migration.

Data consistency and accuracy are key concerns during migration. Strategies such as full data loads, incremental synchronization, and change data capture are often used to minimize downtime and ensure that no transactions are lost during the transition. Security considerations, including access controls, encryption, and compliance requirements, must also be incorporated throughout the migration process.

Database migration typically involves several steps, including: