Replication: Questions about Upgrades and Mixed Technologies
I have spoken to many people in regards to three common questions and therefore thought it may be useful to post this information on my blog
- What is the recommended way of upgrading your replication topology?
- What is the recommended way of upgrading your SQL server in a mixed environment (replication + database mirroring for example).
- Can we implement replication with multiple versions of SQL Server?
Considerations for Upgrading Servers in a Replication Topology
When upgrading instances of SQL Server in a replication topology, it is recommended you upgrade the instances in the following order:
- Distributor
- Publisher
- Subscribers
How to apply a hotfix for SQL Server 2005 in a replication topology
However, what happens when you got mixed technologies, such as replication and database mirroring, working side by side and on the same servers?
It is wise to follow the recommendations of how to upgrade each technology.
<Example>
Implementation of Replication and Database Mirroring:
To upgrade to a more recent build of SQL, in this scenario, it is recommended to do the following:
- The Mirror
- The Witness/Distributor (as they are on the same server\instance in this example)
- The Principal/Publisher
- The Subscribers
Of course this all depends on how one has his topology / design implemented.
When designing a topology that involves different technologies, the procedure of upgrading your SQL Server builds should be taken into consideration.
How to install service packs and hotfixes on an instance of SQL Server 2005 that is configured to use database mirroring
https://support.microsoft.com/kb/926824
In regards to using multiple versions of SQL in a replication topology:
Using Multiple Versions of SQL Server in a Replication Topology