Database Migration Service for PostgreSQL

AElestio Databaseprovides Migrationa Servicestructured (DMS)approach for migrating PostgreSQL enables users to transfer datadatabases from one PostgreSQL instance to another or from different database systems to PostgreSQL. Migrations are performed for various reasons,environments, includingsuch upgrading PostgreSQL versions, moving from anas on-premises serversystems or other cloud platforms, to its managed services. This process ensures data integrity and minimizes downtime, facilitating a smooth transition to a cloudmanaged environment, consolidating databases, or switching from a different database system. Proper migration planning ensures minimal downtime, data integrity, and seamless transition without impacting application performance.

Types of PostgreSQL Migrations

Homogeneous Migration (PostgreSQL to PostgreSQL)

This type of migration moves data between two PostgreSQL databases. It is commonly used for:

• Upgrading PostgreSQL versions (e.g., from PostgreSQL 12 to PostgreSQL 15).

• Migrating from an on-premises PostgreSQL instance to a cloud-based PostgreSQL service like AWS RDS, Google Cloud SQL, or Azure Database for PostgreSQL.

• Switching to a more optimized PostgreSQL environment (e.g., moving from a single-instance PostgreSQL setup to a high-availability cluster).

Since both the source and target databases use the same structure, the migration process is more straightforward, requiring only data export, transfer, and import.

Heterogeneous Migration (Other Databases to PostgreSQL)

Heterogeneous migrations involve transferring data from a different database system (e.g., MySQL, SQL Server, Oracle) to PostgreSQL. These migrations require additional steps due to differences in:

• Data types (e.g., MySQL’s TINYINT vs. PostgreSQL’s SMALLINT).

• SQL syntax and functions (e.g., NVARCHAR in SQL Server vs. TEXT in PostgreSQL).

• Stored procedures and triggers, which may need to be rewritten in PostgreSQL’s PL/pgSQL.

Tools like pgloader, AWS DMS, and ora2pg assist in schema conversion and data transfer.environment.​

Key Steps in PostgreSQLMigrating Databaseto MigrationElestio

AssessPre-Migration and Plan the MigrationPreparation

Before startinginitiating the migration,migration process, it's essential to undertake thorough preparation to ensure a detailedsmooth assessment of the existing database is necessary to identify potential challenges. Key tasks include:transition:

• AnalyzingCreate databasean sizeElestio Account: Register on the Elestio platform to access their suite of managed services. This account will serve as the central hub for managing your PostgreSQL instance and structure:related Large databases may need incremental migration instead of a full dump.resources.

• CheckingDeploy the Target PostgreSQL Service: Set up a new PostgreSQL instance on Elestio to serve as the destination for your data. It's crucial to match the software version of your current PostgreSQL database to avoid compatibility issues during data transfer. Detailed prerequisites and guidance can be found in Elestio's migration documentation.

Initiating the Migration Process:

Ensure

With the preparatory steps completed, you can proceed to migrate your PostgreSQL supportsdatabase allto requiredElestio:

data

types
1. and

   Access functions.the Migration Tool: Navigate to the overview of your PostgreSQL service on the Elestio dashboard. Click on the "Migrate Database" button to initiate the migration process. This tool is designed to facilitate a smooth transition by guiding you through each step.

2. IdentifyingConfigure dependenciesMigration Settings:: Applications,A storedmodal procedures,window andwill externalopen, integrationsprompting mustyou beto verifiedensure forthat compatibility.your target service has sufficient disk space to accommodate your database. Adequate storage is vital to prevent interruptions during data transfer. Once confirmed, click on the "Get started" button to proceed.

3. PlanningValidate downtimeSource Database Connection:: IfProvide the migrationconnection involves a critical application, strategies like logical replication or phased migration should be considered to minimize downtime.

A migration plan should outline the tools to be used, estimated timedetails for completion,your and rollback strategies in case of failure.

Set Up the Targetexisting PostgreSQL Database

database,

Before migrating data, the destination PostgreSQL database must be properly configured. Steps include:including:

• InstallingHostname: PostgreSQL:The Ensureaddress theof correctyour PostgreSQLcurrent version is installed on the targetdatabase server.

• CreatingPort: theThe database:

  port

  CREATE DATABASE mydatabase;

• Configuring performance settings: Adjust parameters like shared_buffers, work_mem, and wal_level basednumber on workloadwhich requirements.your PostgreSQL service is running (default is 5432).

• SettingDatabase upName: userThe rolesname andof permissions:the database you intend to migrate.

  CREATE ROLE dbuser WITH LOGIN PASSWORD 'securepassword';
  GRANT ALL PRIVILEGES ON DATABASE mydatabase TO dbuser;

• EnablingUsername: necessaryThe extensions:username Ifwith access privileges to the sourcedatabase.

  database
uses
• extensions

  Password: (e.g.,The uuid-ossp,corresponding postgis),password they must be enabled onfor the target database before migration.user.

Choose

After aentering Migrationthese Tool

details, click on "Run Check" to validate the connection. This step ensures that Elestio can securely and accurately access your existing data. You can find these details under Database admin section under your deployed PostgreSQL service.

The

choice

4. Execute the Migration: If all checks pass without errors, initiate the migration by selecting "Start migration." Monitor the progress through the real-time migration logs displayed on the dashboard. This transparency allows for immediate detection and resolution of migrationany toolissues, dependsensuring ondata whetherintegrity itthroughout isthe a homogeneous or heterogeneous migration:process.

   Post-Migration

   completing the migration, it's perform validation and

   ToolValidation and Optimization	Use After Case
   pg_dump / pg_restore	Best for full PostgreSQL-to-PostgreSQL migrations.
   pgloader	Ideal for migrating MySQL, SQLite, or MS SQLcrucial to PostgreSQL.
   AWSoptimization DMS,tasks GCPto Database Migration Service, Azure DMS	Suitable for cloud-based PostgreSQL migrations with minimal downtime.
   Bucardo, Slony-I, Logical Replication	Used for continuous data replication.

   Selectingensure the right tool ensures an efficientintegrity and error-freeperformance migration.of your database in the new environment:

   Best Practices for PostgreSQL Migration

   • MinimizeVerify DowntimeData Integrity:: UseConduct logicalthorough replicationchecks to syncensure all data continuouslyhas beforebeen switchingaccurately transferred. This includes comparing row counts, checksums, and sample data between the source and target databases. Such verification maintains the reliability of your database and ensures that no data was lost or altered during migration.

   • Test Application Functionality: Ensure that applications interacting with the database function correctly in the new environment. Update connection strings and configurations as necessary to reflect the new database location. This step prevents potential disruptions and ensures seamless operation of dependent systems.

   • Optimize IndexingPerformance: Utilize Elestio's managed service features to fine-tune database performance. Set up automated backups to safeguard your data, monitor resource utilization to identify and Performance:address Rebuild indexesbottlenecks, and vacuumconfigure tablesscaling afteroptions migration.to accommodate future growth. These actions contribute to improved application responsiveness and overall system efficiency.

   • BackupImplement BeforeSecurity MigrationMeasures:: AlwaysReview takeand configure security settings to protect your data within the Elestio environment. Set up firewalls to control access, manage user access controls to ensure only authorized personnel can interact with the database, and enable encryption where applicable to protect data at rest and in transit. Implementing these security measures safeguards your data against unauthorized access and potential threats.

   Benefits of Using Elestio for PostgreSQL

   Migrating your PostgreSQL database to Elestio offers several advantages:​

   • Simplified Management: Elestio automates routine database maintenance tasks, including software updates, backups, and system monitoring, reducing the need for manual intervention. The platform provides a fullcentralized backupdashboard that offers real-time insights into database performance and resource utilization, facilitating proactive management. Elestio supports in-place service plan adjustments, allowing for seamless scaling of CPU and RAM resources as needed. Additionally, the platform enables easy modification of environment variables and access to avoidsoftware datainformation, loss.streamlining configuration management. 

   • TestEnhanced ThoroughlySecurity:: ValidateElestio allensures that PostgreSQL instances are always up to date with the latest security patches, safeguarding against known vulnerabilities. The platform implements automated backup solutions, ensuring data beforeintegrity movingand toavailability production.in case of unexpected incidents. Elestio provides secure access mechanisms, including the generation of random passwords for database instances, which can be managed and updated through the administration dashboard. 

   • MonitorImproved Post-MigrationPerformance: Performance:Elestio Trackoptimally queryconfigures executionPostgreSQL timesinstances to ensure high performance, tailoring settings to match specific workload requirements. The platform supports the latest PostgreSQL versions, incorporating performance enhancements and adjustnew features that contribute to efficient database operations. Elestio's infrastructure is designed to handle varying workloads, providing consistent performance even during peak usage periods. 

   • Scalability: Elestio's managed PostgreSQL parametersservice allows for betterdynamic performance.scaling of database resources, accommodating growth and fluctuating workloads without significant downtime. The platform offers flexible service plans that can be upgraded or downgraded in place, enabling instant adjustment of CPU and RAM allocations to meet changing demands. Elestio supports the addition of network volumes to expand storage capacity as data requirements increase. 

   A well-planned PostgreSQL migration ensures a smooth transition with minimal disruptions. By following these steps, organizations can migrate databases efficiently while maintaining data integrity and application stability.