Migrating data from SQL Azure to MS Access(.mdb; .accdb)

This guide walks you through migrating data from SQL Azure to MS Access in a few simple steps using ESF Database Migration Toolkit. Simplify complex migration tasks and save valuable time with our streamlined approach.

SQL Azure vs. MS Access:

Microsoft SQL Azure, also known as Azure SQL Database, is a fully managed relational database service provided by Microsoft. It offers scalable and high-performance SQL database capabilities in the cloud, with built-in high availability, automated backups, and robust security features. Designed to handle both small and large-scale applications, Azure SQL Database simplifies database management tasks, allowing developers to focus on building applications without worrying about underlying infrastructure. It supports various deployment options, including single databases, elastic pools, and managed instances, catering to diverse business needs.
Microsoft Access is a robust database management system (DBMS) that combines the relational Microsoft Jet Database Engine with a graphical user interface and software development tools. As part of the Microsoft Office suite, MS Access provides users with an easy-to-use platform for creating and managing databases, enabling efficient data entry, query execution, and report generation. It supports various data formats, allows integration with other Microsoft applications, and is ideal for small to medium-sized databases used in business and personal applications.

Prerequisite:

Software Required:

DMToolkit_x64.zip (63.6 MiB)	64-bit Windows application for ESF Database Migration Toolkit 12.2.08 (2025-07-11). (md5: e93a0ef57622bfd8ee77d6aa6e38c13b)
DMToolkit_win32.zip (58.8 MiB)	32-bit Windows application for ESF Database Migration Toolkit 12.2.08 (2025-07-11). (md5: bd34cb7f73c88c6d0c7a44069ad756d6)

System Supported:
- Windows 7 or higher.
- SQL Azure.
- MS Access 97 or higher.

Step by Step Wizard:

Configure SQL Azure Connection
- Prerequisite:
  - Enable "Allow access to Azure services" in Azure SQL server settings
  - Add your client IP under Firewalls and virtual networks
- In the "Choose a Data Source" dialog:
  - Select "SQL Azure"
- Enter connection details:
  - Server name: e.g., esf.database.windows.net
  - Port: 1433 (default)
  - Authentication: Enter credentials
- Load database options:
  - Click the Refresh Database button
  - Select target database from list
- Load schema options:
  - Click the Refresh Schema button
  - Choose desired schema
Fig. 1: SQL Azure data source configuration
Configure Microsoft Access Destination
- In the "Choose a Destination" dialog:
  - Select "Microsoft Access (*.mdb;*.accdb)"
- File selection:
  - Click the "..." button (Browse)
  - Select target .mdb or .accdb file
- Workgroup security configuration (if applicable):
  - Click the Lock button
  - Set system database in security dialog
Fig. 2: Microsoft Access destination configuration
In "Select Source Table(s) & View(s)" Dialog
- Select migration objects: Choose tables or views to include in the migration.
  
  Fig. 3: Select tables and views
- Modify table structure: Click the ellipsis (...) button to access table options and schema adjustments.
  
  Fig. 4: Do transform
- Configure field mapping: In the Field Mapping options:
  - Customize destination fields (name, data type, default value, comments)
  - Select data transfer method:
    - Overwrite Table (replace existing data)
    - Empty Data (truncate before insert)
    - Append Data (add to existing data)
    - Skip Table (exclude from transfer)
  - Apply data filters before transfer
Execution Dialog
- Start migration: Click "Submit" to initiate automated data transfer from SQL Azure to MS Access.
  
  Fig. 5: Execute migration
- Monitor progress: Click "Browse Log" for real-time migration tracking, including issue resolution details.
- Save configuration: Click "Save as job" to store settings for:
  - Quick reloads of migration jobs
  - Command-line execution (use: dmtc.exe --help for parameter options)
Finished!

After migration completes, the toolkit generates a comprehensive report for verifying migration accuracy. You can monitor progress as the automated process runs efficiently. For any questions or feedback, contact us – our team is ready to assist.