Why Upgrade Now?

SQL Server 2016 and earlier versions are approaching end-of-support, making modernization a priority for security, compliance, and performance. SQL Server 2025 and SSMS 22 introduces advanced features like Vector Store Indexing, JSON Data Types and the Query Optimizer Assistant; enabling organizations to future-proof their data estate. Using the new SSMS 22 Hybrid & Migration Component simplifies upgrading to SQL Server 2025 or migrating to Azure SQL environments.

Introducing the SSMS Migration Component

Starting with SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS) 22, the Hybrid & Migration Component delivers a streamlined experience for upgrade assessment and side-by-side migration. This replaces the Data Migration Assistant (DMA) that retired on July 16, 2025, consolidating assessment and migration into one tool. So what are the key capabilities:

Upgrade Assessment

• Detects breaking changes, deprecated features, and behavior changes for SQL Server 2025.
• Flags discontinued components like Master Data Services (MDS) and Data Quality Services (DQS).
• Provides remediation guidance for defaults settings and feature replacements like Fabric Mirroring.

Migration Wizard

• Uses backup-copy-restore for database migration.
• Transfers logins and supports side-by-side upgrades for complex environments.
• Compatible with On-premises, Azure SQL, and hybrid deployments.

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Pre-Migration Checklist

Before you migrate, follow these pre-migrations steps from Microsoft Learn:

• Inventory & Discovery: Use SSMS or Azure Migrate to identify all SQL Server instances and dependencies.
• Compatibility Assessment: Run the SSMS Migration Assessment to uncover blockers and deprecated features.
• Business Strategy: Decide between in-place upgrade (supported from SQL Server 2014 SP3+) or side-by-side migration for major OS/hardware changes.
• Provision Target Environment: Prepare SQL Server 2025 or Azure SQL targets with proper sizing and performance tiers.

Migration Execution

• Backup & Restore: Use .bak files for database transfer.
  • DACPAC: Schema Only
  • BACPAC: Schema and Data
• Logins & Jobs: Migrate manually or via SSMS wizard.
• Validation: Test schema, permissions, and performance.
• Enable New Features: Activate AI-driven optimization, vector search, and Fabric integration.

Why It Matters

The SSMS Migration Component simplifies what used to be a multi-tool process. With targeted upgrade rules, remediation guidance, and built-in migration workflows, you can move to SQL Server 2025 confidently; whether on-premises or in Azure.

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Quick Links

• Pre-Migration Guide: https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/data-migration/sql-server/pre-migration
• SQL Server Migration Component: https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/ssms/migrate-sql-server-component)
• Upgrade and Assess: https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/microsoftdatamigration/assess-and-upgrade-to-sql-server-2025-with-ssms-migration-component/4470652