Need to migrate a legacy application from SQL Server to Azure

Question

I need to migrate a legacy application from SQL Server to any other IaaS or PaaS platform. The application cannot be migrated because it is certified for Windows 7. But the business still needs to access the data for lookups. I'm wondering what type of web app could be created with minimal effort, and preferably no extra Azure costs.

The database can be migrated to any of our existing Azure SQL VM, Managed Instance or Azure SQL Database instances, but I need to provide an application user interface for the business users.

Answer 1

Hi Rita Nzenwa,

Thank you for reaching out and posting the query.
Based on your inquiry, we understand that you need to migrate a legacy SQL Server application to Azure, but it cannot be moved due to its Windows 7 certification. The business still requires access to the data for lookups, and you're looking for a straightforward, cost-effective web app solution for users, with the database hosted on Azure SQL VM, Managed Instance, or SQL Database. 
Database Migration Options: You can move the SQL Server database to different Azure services, such as: 

• Azure SQL Database: A fully managed service offering scalability and built-in high availability. 
• Azure SQL Managed Instance: Provides almost complete SQL Server compatibility, ideal for apps needing SQL Server features not found in Azure SQL Database. 
• Azure SQL VM: Gives full control over the SQL Server instance but requires more management. 

Web Application Development: A simple web app can be created using various technologies that connect to the migrated database. Options include: 

• ASP.NET Core: A framework for rapid web app development if you’re familiar with .NET. 
• Node.js: A JavaScript runtime for building lightweight web applications. 
• Python Flask: A micro-framework for easy setup and use in simple web apps. 
  Hosting Options: Azure App Service, a PaaS solution, lets you host web apps without managing infrastructure. Alternatively, Azure Static Web Apps works for mainly static applications. 
  Cost Management: To reduce costs, you can use free Azure service tiers, serverless architectures, or host the app on existing resources.
  I would request you to refer the below mentioned links for more information 
  Tutorial: Migrate SQL Server to Azure SQL Database (offline) - Azure Database Migration Service | Microsoft Learn 
  SQL Server to SQL Server on Azure Virtual Machines: Migration guide - SQL Server on Azure VMs | Microsoft Learn 
  I hope this information helps. Please do let us know if you have any further queries.  

Answer 2

Hi Adithya,

Thanks for your response.

The Azure database options are not an issue as we manage all three IaaS and PaaS, and I am familiar with migrations across the platforms.

Your web application development suggestions are most welcome. I have previously considered Azure Static Web Apps, but have not delved into into development yet.

The main challenge is some sort of tool to help expose and "lift" the existing application code, and port into it a simple Azure application. I'm approaching things from a DBA perspective working on migrations, upgrades and modernisation and need to evaluate the most suitable and cost-effective solution for the maintaining the legacy application.

I'll liaise with our cloud architect and application developers to see what we can come up with.

Thanks, Rita.