Exchange server migration is the process of moving Microsoft Exchange from one system to another, often to upgrade to a newer version. It requires planning, backups, and testing to minimize downtime and ensure compatibility. The rollout is complete when the entire infrastructure has been migrated.
Exchange® server migration is the process of moving a Microsoft Exchange® platform from one system to another. This can be an existing infrastructure moved to faster servers or a newer version of Exchange® deployed on an existing infrastructure. Most often, this last example is what is referred to as migration. When newer versions of software are released that offer significant benefits to users, an administrator often decides to upgrade the software. This is not a decision to be taken lightly, as it requires considerable time and money.
The migration process itself is slow and time consuming and requires a lot of planning. In the case of Exchange®, planning is key to not losing data during the move. You need to perform backups, set up servers and networking, and copy data from one set of servers to another. In an email environment, such as Exchange®, there needs to be as little downtime as possible. Many workers depend on email to communicate and get their jobs done, and working without it can cause big problems.
The migration process usually follows a certain pattern. A copy of the new application is captured and tested in a lab or isolated environment. This is to make sure it is compatible with other software your organization uses and that existing hardware can handle it.
Once tested, a limited rollout is usually implemented. This involves having separate hardware running alongside your existing infrastructure. New systems will have the new version of Exchange® and a copy of everything needed to replace the old one. This will include any third party applications, .pst files with email data, and anything else needed to work.
Once everything is in place, a single location will be switched to use the new system and the migration has begun. Exchange® server migration is complicated because it involves several interdependent servers that all need to change at the same time. That’s why a second setup is needed, to minimize downtime and the effect it will have on productivity.
Location using the new system will be monitored and feedback collected from users. Once the proper tests are completed and the results accepted, other venues will be implemented in exactly the same way. The rollout is complete when the entire infrastructure has been migrated to the new version of Exchange®.
In larger organizations, Exchange® server migration can take months of planning, testing, and implementation. This is why it’s not something to be taken lightly. Whatever the size or scope of the job, however, the Exchange® server migration process is the same.
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