migration from on-premises to cloud
Liquid Technologies is recognized as a Clutch Global Leader for 2023 & 2024

What are the steps for migration from on-premises to cloud?

Introduction

In the increasingly evolving landscape of technology, the process of migration from on-premises to cloud has become a pivotal move for businesses looking for enhanced scalability, overall cost efficiency, and agility. This blog will guide you through the essential steps and considerations for a smooth migration. From understanding the basics to uncovering the benefits and addressing potential challenges, this guide is your go-to resource for a successful journey into the cloud.

What does migration from on-premises to cloud entail?

To develop a full understanding of the steps involved in migration from on-premises to cloud, we need to first comprehend what exactly it is.  “On-Premises” is the on-ground infrastructure- the hardware, applications, and data within the organization in the form of physical servers, storage devices, and networking equipment.  “The cloud” on the other hand, is a virtual infrastructure where you can store, manage, and move data around.

This is provided by a cloud service provider over the Internet. Migration in this context, refers to the process of moving applications, infrastructure security, and other forms of data to a cloud computing environment. Migration from on-premises to cloud therefore entails transferring data from your physical infrastructure and data center to the cloud servers.

Types of migration from on-premises to cloud

There are 4 main types that companies usually consider to move data when moving from on-premises to cloud depending on their business goals, technical considerations, and cost efficiencies.

The types are as:

1. Rehosting

Rehosting, also referred to as “Lift and Shift” is a migration approach where existing data and applications are shifted to the cloud with minimal or no changes. This is often done to save time and take advantage of the scalability and cost benefits without revamping the entire infrastructure.

2. Refactoring

This is often called the “Rip and Replace” strategy because that is literally what is done. The entire application is redesigned to take complete advantage of the most advanced features of the cloud service provider. While this approach is more expensive, time-consuming, and labor-intensive compared to rehosting, it is more effective in the long term, particularly if you intend to migrate a substantial number of applications onto the cloud.

3. Re-platforming

Re-platforming, also known as “Lift, Tinker and Shift” is the middle ground between rehosting and refactoring and consists of making some changes to the applications to optimize the cloud capabilities without redesigning the application completely. This usually involves updating the codebase or reappraising the configurations to suit cloud computing better. Re-platforming can work for migrations from on-premises infrastructure to IaaS, as well as moves to a PaaS service.

4. Repurchasing

Also known as “drop and shop”, repurchasing is a strategy that involves replacing on-premises software with cloud-based solutions. Instead of migrating the existing application to the cloud, organizations opt to purchase a new software-as-a-service (SaaS) solution from a cloud service provider. This is often done when the existing on-premises software being used is outdated or when cloud alternatives offer better functionality and scalability.

What are the steps of migration from on-premises to cloud?

The following outlines the six key steps in the process of migration from on-premises to cloud services.

1) Make a Plan

Develop a meticulous migration plan that aligns with your business goals and performance targets. Establish Cloud Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and set performance baselines. Also, figure out the extent of cloud migration as this will help determine the type of cloud migration you choose to undertake.

2) Evaluate Pricing

Migration from on-premises to cloud can often have many hidden costs so it is essential to manage pricing. Investigate the offerings from various cloud vendors to estimate the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) and assess logistics and resource requirements for different migration strategies.

An option could be to start with a modest lift-and-shift operation and adapt your strategy based on evolving needs to manage an initial high cost. Different cloud providers also have price calculators like AWS Pricing Calculator and Azure Pricing Calculator to give an estimate of the total spend.

3) Security:

Ensuring that all your information is secure is essential during migration from on-premises to cloud. Make sure to configure networking and security settings in the cloud and implement firewalls, VPNs, and other security measures to establish a secure and optimized cloud infrastructure. One way of doing this is by deploying cloud Firewall-as-a-Service (FWaaS) beforehand to reduce the risk of exposure to on-premises data during transit.

4) Determine and Execute Production Switch Mechanisms:

Define clear procedures for switching production from on-premises to the cloud to ensure a seamless transition without compromising business continuity. This can be done by either turning off on-premises production and turning it on in the cloud simultaneously or running both on-premises and cloud applications in parallel by redistributing traffic between them. Alternatively, you could also test it by moving small batches in stages to reduce the risk of any issues.

During this process, it is important to validate each migrated element before moving on to the next workload. Additionally, mechanisms should be in place to synchronize changes made to the source data throughout the transfer.

5) Re-engineer Application’s Architecture:

Next is re-architecting your application for the cloud in the steps of on-premises migration to cloud. To optimize cloud technologies, you may need to refactor your code as well as your overall application architecture. You could utilize virtual Machine Servers (VMS) to virtualize your application and Docker to containerize it. Re-architecting your code may not be essential, but it assists in specifying which components of your software are transferring and which are not.

6) Continuous Evaluation and Optimization:

After migration, conduct a thorough evaluation to ensure all components function correctly and optimize the cloud environment based on testing and feedback from users. Continuously refine your cloud setup to ensure ongoing security, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness.

Challenges of On-premises migration to cloud

When deciding on, software migration from on-premises to cloud, it is important to consider the potential challenges below:

1. Security:

As data is technically stored online, it is susceptible to potential breaches. Planning security measures and deploying Firewall-as-a-Service (FWaaS) to safeguard your information is essential.

2. Costs:

Migration from on-premises to cloud services can be expensive, with costs such as Total Cost of Ownership (TCO), bandwidth needs, and post-migration expenses adding up quickly. Meticulous planning and cost strategizing are crucial beforehand.

3. Legacy Software Infrastructure:

Some legacy apps and systems were developed before the era of cloud computing, necessitating a decision on whether to replatform, refactor, or repurchase those legacy resources before migration.

4. Databases:

In some instances, database migration can be slower than transferring workload apps. Therefore, planning and finding ways to mitigate potential operational disruptions beforehand is essential.

5. Insufficient Expertise:

Often, there is a lack of knowledge and skills required to smoothly execute the migration. That’s why having the right partners with expertise in on-premises to cloud migration is crucial for a successful process. At Liquid Technologies, we have seasoned professionals with the right skill set to help guide you through this transition smoothly while ensuring efficiency and high security.

Conclusion

Migration from on-premises to cloud therefore requires careful planning through evaluation and continuous optimization to ensure it aligns with business objectives. Each of the various steps of on-premises migration to cloud contributes to a successful and seamless transition with a focus on maintaining business continuity, security, and efficiency.

By navigating the challenges and adhering to best practices, organizations can unlock the full potential of cloud computing for enhanced scalability, cost-effectiveness, and overall efficiency.

FAQ’s

Q1. What are the steps of on-premises migration to cloud USA?

A1.Migration from on-premises to cloud USA includes meticulous planning, choosing the right migration strategy, evaluating pricing structures of different CSPs, ensuring security, executing production switch mechanisms, re-engineering application architecture, and continuous evaluation and optimization. Each step plays a crucial role in achieving a smooth transition.

Q2. Why should companies consider on-premises migration to cloud

A2. Companies should utilize on-premises migration to cloud services for a variety of reasons like ensuring reliable backup and data recovery in case of any disaster, increasing global accessibility, improving business agility, and cost efficiency. Cloud platforms also offer different advanced tools like machine learning, AI, and analytics that can help companies innovate, gain insights, and improve overall operational efficiency.

Q3. Why is re-engineering application architecture important in the steps of on-premises migration to cloud?

A3. Re-architecting applications for the cloud involves optimizing for cloud technologies. This may include refactoring code, utilizing Virtual Machine Servers (VMS), or containerizing with tools like Docker. It helps specify which components of the software are transferring and which are not.

Q4. What role does continuous evaluation play post-migration?

A4: After migration, continuous evaluation is essential to ensure all components function correctly. Optimization based on testing and feedback ensures ongoing security, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness in the cloud environment.

Blogs

How to Build an AI Assistant: A Comprehensive Guide to AI Virtual Assistant Technology in 2024

AI virtual assistant technology is one of the major digital innovations in 2024 because it shapes our everyday interactions with technology.

Read More

Top Mobile App Development Frameworks: A Guide to Your Best Options

Making a presence with mobile app development frameworks is important to keep your business up and running.

Read More

How Enterprise Design Thinking Transforms Business Challenges into Opportunities

Businesses face various new challenges almost daily, and in the present fast-paced environment, business solutions require innovation.

Read More

AI-Powered Virtual Assistant: Key Features and Benefits Explained

Discover the key features and benefits of an AI-powered virtual assistant. Learn how these AI products transform businesses with enhanced efficiency and productivity.

Read More

Implementing a Real-Time Data Warehouse: Benefits, Challenges, and Solutions 

Discover the top benefits of implementing a real-time data warehouse. Learn how it enhances decision-making, efficiency, and competitiveness for businesses.

Read More

A Comprehensive Guide to Agile Software Development 

Discover the benefits of Agile software development. Learn about its methodologies, processes, and life cycle for delivering high-quality software efficiently.

Read More

Addressing the Challenges of Business Intelligence with Proven Approaches and Solutions

Companies rely on business intelligence (BI) more than ever to make data-driven decisions in the modern world we live in today.

Read More

The Top Artificial Intelligence Trends in 2024

Artificial intelligence (AI) is the key to innovation, and 2024 is no different. AI is also a game changer, from making the future of work to reshaping regions in which AI is manufactured.

Read More

How Custom Mobile App Development Can Benefit Your Business

With the modern rapid digital empire, businesses need to race ahead of their competitors.

Read More

What are the key steps of migration to AWS?

In the rapidly evolving technological landscape, businesses constantly seek ways to improve efficiency, cut costs, and increase scalability.

Read More

Comparing Cloud Migration Giants: AWS vs. Azure vs. Google Cloud

In the current digital environment, enterprises are progressively gravitating towards cloud computing to stimulate innovation, boost scalability, and optimize operations.

Read More

DevOps Consulting Services in the UK – Comprehensive Guide for UK Businesses

In today’s swiftly developing technical landscape, companies in the UK are continuously looking for methods to boost their performance and build their skills.

Read More

Key Considerations for Selecting Top-Tier Cloud Migration Services in Houston

Businesses in Houston are increasingly using cloud migration services in today’s digital environment to improve scalability, streamline operations, and strengthen data security.

Read More

Flutter vs Traditional Development: What are the benefits of Flutter App Development?

In today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, mobile applications play a pivotal role in our daily routines. They facilitate a myriad of tasks, ranging from placing restaurant orders to scheduling transportation and maintaining social connections.

Read More

Choosing the Right Custom Software Development Partner in Milwaukee

Custom software development services, such as Custom Software Development Services Milwaukee.

Read More

IBM Cloud vs AWS: The Difference and How to Choose?

In today’s digital age, the cloud has become an indispensable tool for businesses of all sizes. It offers scalability, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness.

Read More

How Cloud Consultation Can Propel Your Business to New Heights?

In the digital age, businesses are constantly seeking innovative solutions to improve operations and stay competitive.

Read More

What are the Benefits of Cloud Consulting?

Moving business applications and infrastructure­ to the cloud requires e­xperienced ste­ering to fully capitalize on its advantages.

Read More

DevOps Benefits for Business: What Does DevOps Do?

In the current rapidly changing business environment, adaptability isn’t merely a trendy term; it’s a prerequisite for thriving.

Read More

What is Virtual Private Cloud Services – A Comprehensive Guide

Virtual Private Cloud (VPC) is a private virtual network inside a public cloud that is segregated and safe.

Read More

The 7 Rs of Cloud Migration: 7 Strategies Explained

AWS has brought in the 7 Rs model, a detailed framework made to assess various migration strategies and offer customized solutions according to different workloads and business needs.

Read More

Unlock Business Success with the Right Cloud Migration Partner in Chicago

It is important to be adaptable, and creative, and stabilize your technical base To stay competitive in the market and keep your pace.

Read More

Expense Optimization Strategies in Cloud Infrastructure and Application Migration Services

In today’s corporate landscape, more and more companies are turning to cloud computing to enhance their agility, scalability, and innovation capabilities.

Read More

Guide to Choosing the Right Cloud Migration Consulting Partner in New Jersey

Migrating to the cloud is a complex process for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs), requiring careful planning and execution.

Read More

AWS Service to migrate data from on-premise to cloud – Complete Guide.

Businesses are increasingly adopting cloud computing to enhance the flexibility, scalability, and cost-efficiency of their work in this current era of digitization.

Read More

Outsource Cloud Migration Services in the US: A Complete Guide

By utilizing outsourcing cloud migration services, US businesses are adopting a proactive strategy to increase their operational effectiveness and maintain their competitiveness.

Read More

Accelerating Growth: The Role of Leading Cloud Migration Service Providers in Business Success

As technology continues to advance at a rapid pace, the importance of cloud data migration for businesses seeking enhanced efficiency, scalability, security, and reliability has increased.

Read More

AWS Cloud Data Migration Services: Ensuring a Smooth Transition

In today’s technological era, data holds the power to business success, serving as the key to operations.

Read More

What are the steps for migration from on-premises to cloud?

In the increasingly evolving landscape of technology, the process of migration from on-premises to cloud has become a pivotal move for businesses.

Read More

Key considerations for SMBs while choosing the cloud migration service providers in NJ

In the current landscape defined by the extensive influence of digital evolution, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMBs)

Read More

2021

Top Mobile App Development Company On Clutch

2021

Top Mobile App Development Company On Good Firms

2021

Top Mobile App Development Company On Futura

2022

Top Mobile App Development Company On UpCity

Schedule a call with our Growth Advisors

Contact Us

Sign Up For Game Development Services

Trusted by

Copyright © 2024 Liquid Technologies | All Rights Reserved.