Migrating to Azure SQL Managed Instance
SQL Server migrations to Azure are no longer optional—they’re business-critical. This focused course cuts through the complexity, teaching you the exact patterns and tools to move workloads to Managed Instance without the typical pitfalls and downtime risks.
AIU.ac Verdict: Ideal for database engineers and cloud architects tasked with SQL Server modernisation projects. The 46-minute format is efficient but assumes foundational Azure and SQL knowledge; absolute beginners may need prerequisite exposure first.
What This Course Covers
You’ll work through the architectural decisions that separate successful migrations from failed ones: choosing between lift-and-shift versus refactoring, managing connectivity and security group configurations, and handling schema compatibility issues. The course covers backup strategies, failover group setup, and the critical pre-migration assessment phase that most teams rush through.
Practical labs walk you through real scenarios: migrating on-premises SQL Server instances, configuring hybrid connectivity, validating application compatibility, and optimising performance post-migration. You’ll learn when to use the Azure Database Migration Service versus native tools, and how to minimise application downtime during cutover.
Who Is This Course For?
Ideal for:
- Database Administrators: Managing SQL Server estates facing end-of-support deadlines or seeking cloud cost optimisation.
- Cloud Architects: Designing Azure infrastructure for enterprise clients with legacy SQL Server workloads.
- DevOps Engineers: Automating database migration pipelines and infrastructure-as-code deployments to Azure.
May not suit:
- SQL Beginners: Requires working knowledge of SQL Server administration, backup/restore, and security concepts.
- Non-Microsoft Stack Teams: Focused exclusively on Azure SQL; limited value if your organisation uses PostgreSQL, MySQL, or non-relational databases.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does Migrating to Azure SQL Managed Instance take?
The course is 46 minutes of video content. Most learners complete it in one sitting, though hands-on labs may add 30–60 minutes depending on your environment setup.
Do I need Azure experience before starting?
Yes. You should be comfortable with Azure portal basics, networking concepts (VNets, subnets), and SQL Server administration. This isn’t an Azure 101 course.
Will this course cover my specific SQL Server version?
The course focuses on SQL Server 2016 and later migrations. Older versions may have additional compatibility considerations not covered in depth.
Can I access hands-on labs without a paid Azure subscription?
Pluralsight provides sandbox environments for most labs, but some advanced scenarios benefit from your own Azure subscription (free tier available for 12 months).
Course by Landon Fowler on Pluralsight. Duration: 0h 46m. Last verified by AIU.ac: March 2026.
