Dan Zeng Sometimes a SQL Server may be overloaded or under-resourced, so migrating a database to another server can help improve performance and manage server resources more efficiently. There are several methods to move a SQL Server database between servers depending on your environment and requirements. You can restore a database backup by backing up the source database to a .bak file and restoring it on the target server using SSMS; copy the database directly using the Copy Database Wizard to move databases and certain server objects without creating a backup file; or generate SQL scripts from the source database (including schema and data) and run them on the target server. Each method provides flexibility for different scenarios and helps ensure smooth database migration and continuity. You can refer to this article：How to Move a SQL Server Database to Another Server in 4 ways? which provides detailed step-by-step guidance on migrating a SQL Server database to another server.
Alistair Nice overview! 👍 Just to add — whichever method you choose, always double-check logins, SQL Agent jobs, and linked servers after the move, since those don’t always transfer automatically. Saved me a headache more than once.
Reid Montague Good summary — and don’t forget to check compatibility level and SQL Server version differences after the move. That part catches people off guard a lot.
Sylas Beaumont Good summary. I usually prefer backup → restore for production because it’s predictable and auditable. Don’t forget to also migrate logins (SIDs) or you’ll end up with orphaned users.
Quentin 100% this. Snapshots are consistency points, not true backups. Application-aware backups + log shipping saved my butt during a DB migration. Always test a restore.
Patrick Kingsley Consider immutability (WORM) for backups to protect against accidental deletions and ransomware — align with retention/legal policies.
Owen Stirling Patrick Kingsley Make sure retention windows are compliant with corporate/legal requirements before enabling long immutability — can’t shorten them easily later.
