Azure SQL Database Backend

Azure SQL Database Backend

After years of use, the data within a Microsoft Access database usually increases so much that the original tables can no longer be relied upon. In such cases, the database fails and has to be “Compacted and Repaired” on a regular basis. This soon becomes disruptive and reverses the whole idea of having the database in the first place. At this point, one solution is to retire the Access database tables in favour of an Azure SQL database backend.

What Is The Process Converting to An SQL Database Backend?

There is a process to follow when switching from Microsoft Access database tables to an Azure SQL database backend. This ensures an efficient and successful switch with minimum disruption to your users and business. The process is as follows:

Examine The Current Access Database Tables

We will examine a copy of your existing tables to check for corrupt data and that the data is valid for the data types set in each column of all tables. We will also need to confirm that the original tables have been developed to allow migration to an Azure SQL database backend.

Migrate The Copy Tables to An Azure SQL Database

While your business continues to use the Access database as usual we will work with the copy database and migrate it to an SQL database. This is to test for issues that may stop a particular table from migrating allowing us to investigate and correct them before migrating the live tables. It will also allow us to check any fields that have been set to autocomplete on the Access tables.

Create Users and Permissions On The Azure SQL Database Backend

We’ll need a list of potential users to allow us to set up their credentials on the SQL server before going live. We will then advise you of the credentials.

Provide Instructions On Linking To The Azure SQL Database Backend

We will provide an ODBC file which will need to be installed on each PC before then connecting to the SQL database. An instruction in PDF format can be downloaded here

Benefits of Using an SQL Database

This network configuration now means that you will benefit from:

1. You are able to use your database from any location with an internet connection.

2. No more Compact/Repair necessary.

3. A mirror copy of your database tables can be held at a different data centre.

4. No limit to the amount of data you are able to store.

5. The 2 gigabyte file size imposed by MS Access no longer applies.

6. The SQL Server can handle many more concurrent users than Access.

7. Able to further develop the front-end without disrupting the database users.

8. Able to send each user an updated front-end as required.

9. While still having the ability to conveniently develop the front end using Microsoft access, your data tables are now held in a much more robust SQL database.

For support visit our Access database support page.

If you would like to get in touch with us regarding our Azure SQL offering, use our Contact Us page.

If you would like to know more about acquiring Microsoft Access please click here.