In this guide, we will discuss “MSSQL DMA Compatibility Mode: Prepare and Migrate Safely”. In the context of database modernisation and cloud adoption. Assessing compatibility and identifying potential risks are critical steps before any migration activity. Please, see How to Protect Thunderbolt Ports in Windows, how to Migrate Veeam One Database from SQL Server 2017 to 2025, and How to check the version of Windows ADK.
Microsoft Data Migration Assistant (DMA) is a valuable tool designed to support this process by analyzing existing SQL Server instances and highlighting possible issues that may arise when migrating to a newer SQL Server version or to Azure SQL.
DMA provides detailed insights into compatibility gaps, deprecated features, and behavioral changes. This enables organizations to make informed decisions and plan remediation activities in advance.
Microsoft offers the Data Migration Assistant (DMA) as a free tool that users typically install on a separate server to protect production performance. This article explores how the DMA reduces migration risks and increases confidence by detailing its key capabilities and effective implementation strategies.
Ms DMA (Data Migration Assistant)
Here is the official download. The Ms DMA (Data Migration Assistant) tool allows you to analyse existing instances. And check for any critical issues if you want to migrate to a higher version or to Sql Azure.
The tool is free and should preferably be installed on a server separate from the instances.
Then run the setup (a simple wizard). Click Next to proceed
Finish installation
Launch the application
Create a new project and assign it a name.
We choose ‘Assessment’ because we want to analyse the source instance without actually performing any migration actions. In this case, the source instance will be a 2008 R2 and the target a 2016. After filling in the fields, select ‘Create’.
Set the target instance (2016) and flag as shown in the figure.
Set the instance to be analysed and the authentication method. The login that connects to the instance must have the permissions shown in the figure, then select ‘connect’.
Select the databases you wish to analyze and then click ‘Add’.
Below is a summary, then select ‘Start Assessment’.
At the end of the analysis, the graphical report shows the possible issues and suggestions for each database and each compatibility level.
By selecting ‘Export Report’, you can save the report in csv (not very readable) or json format, which can be read using a json viewer such as https://codebeautify.org/jsonviewer for example.
Below is a clear explanation followed by a concise recap, written in a professional and technical tone.
Please, see “Migrate Veeam MSSQL Database to a new Microsoft SQL Server“, how to Install WSL on Windows, and “How to use the Program Compatibility Troubleshooter to Test Application Compatibility on Windows 11“.
Explanation
By using a tree structure, recommendations and analysis results are organized hierarchically, making them easier to explore and interpret.
This approach allows you to start from a high-level overview at the SQL Server instance level and progressively drill down into more detailed insights.
At the database (DB) level, you can identify issues and recommendations that affect an entire database, while at the individual compatibility level, you can focus on specific objects, features, or behaviors within a particular database.
This structured navigation helps isolate risks, understand their scope, and prioritize remediation actions more effectively during a migration or upgrade assessment.
Recap
- Tree structure provides a clear, hierarchical view of analysis results
- Recommendations can be reviewed at instance, database, and object/compatibility level
- Enables efficient drill-down from high-level findings to detailed issues
- Simplifies risk assessment and remediation planning for migrations and upgrades
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