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

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

MS Access vs. SQL Server:

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.
SQL Server is a robust relational database management system developed by Microsoft, designed for a wide range of data management applications. It supports a variety of transaction processing, business intelligence, and analytics applications in corporate IT environments. Known for its high performance, scalability, and security features, SQL Server offers comprehensive tools for database creation, management, and maintenance, making it a preferred choice for both small-scale applications and large enterprise systems. Its integration with other Microsoft products and services further enhances its versatility and ease of use.

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.
- MS Access 97 or higher.
- SQL Server 6.5 or higher.

Step by Step Wizard:

Configure Microsoft Access Data Source
- In the "Choose a Data Source" dialog:
  - Select "Microsoft Access (*.mdb;*.accdb)"
- Browse for database file:
  - Click the "..." button
  - Select your .mdb or .accdb file
- Configure workgroup security (for system databases):
  - Click the lock icon
  - Set workgroup settings in the security dialog
Fig. 1: Microsoft Access data source configuration
Configure Microsoft SQL Server Destination
- In the "Choose a Destination" dialog:
  - Select "Microsoft SQL Server"
- Server connection details:
  - Enter SQL Server host name (optionally with instance name), e.g., localhost\sqlexpress
  - For TCP/IP connections:
    - Specify server port (default: 0 uses named pipes)
    - Provide username (e.g., sa) and password
  - For Windows Authentication:
    - Check the Windows Authentication checkbox
- Database configuration:
  - Click the Refresh button to list existing databases
  - Select existing database or enter new database name
  - Note: Non-existing databases will be automatically created during migration
- Schema configuration:
  - Click the refresh button to list existing schemas
  - Select existing schema or enter new schema name
  - Default schema: dbo (if left blank)
  - Note: Non-existing schemas will be automatically created during migration
Fig. 2: Microsoft SQL Server 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 MS Access to SQL Server.
  
  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.