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

This guide will show you how to easily migrate data from MS Access to SQL Server through a few simple steps with ESF Database Migration Toolkit, simplifying the complex migration processes and saving you valuable time.

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 12.2.05 (2025-05-27). (md5: a3f5b9709adaf8bf87079af23f3d17cc)
DMToolkit_win32.zip (58.8 MiB)	32-bit Windows application for ESF Database Migration Toolkit 12.2.05 (2025-05-27). (md5: 819e85d535e849f04ec78311c488f4ce)

System Supported:
- Windows 7 or higher.
- MS Access 97 or higher.
- SQL Server 6.5 or higher.

Step by Step Wizard:

In "Choose a Data Source" dialog, select "Microsoft Access (*.mdb;*.accdb)";
- Click on the "..." button to locate the Access database file (either .MDB or .ACCDB).
- If there is a system database (workgroup), click on the "Lock" button to set it.
In "Choose a Destination" dialog, choose "Microsoft SQL Server";
- Input the SQL Server host name (you can also add an instance name). e.g: localhost\sqlexpress.
- If using TCP/IP method then input the server port (default is 0 and using pipe method), in addition, you need to provide a username(e.g: sa) and password.
- Check the "Windows Authentication" checkbox if using Windows authentication.
- Select an existing database or input a new database name (click the 'Refresh' button to list all databases). If the target database does not exist, this tool will automatically create it during the migration process.
- Select an existing schema or enter a new schema (press the refresh button to list all schemas). If the target schema does not exist, this toolkit will automatically create it during the migration process. If left blank, it defaults to 'dbo'.
In "Select source Tables(s) & View(s)" dialog;
- Select the tables or views you want to migrate.
- You can access the table options or adjust the table structure by clicking the "..." button.
- In the "Field Mapping" option, you can customize the destination table's fields, such as field name, data type, default value, comment, and more. You also have the option to choose the data transfer method, including Overwrite Table, Empty Data, Append Data, or Skip Table, or even filter the data before transferring it.
In "Execution" Dialog;
- You can start the migration process by clicking "Submit". The toolkit will efficiently and seamlessly migrate your data from MS Access to SQL Server without the need for manual intervention.
- To keep track of the migration process, you can access the full migration log by clicking "Browse Log". This will provide you with a comprehensive view of the entire migration, including any potential issues and their resolutions.
- To save time in the future, you can save the migration settings as a job file by clicking "Save as job". This allows you to quickly reload the migration job at a later time or run the migration job using the command-prompt by typing "dmtc.exe --help". The command-prompt provides you with a full list of parameters to customize the migration process to your specific needs.
Finished!

Upon completion, the toolkit will generate a comprehensive migration report, providing you with all the information you need to verify the accuracy and completeness of the migration process. So, you can sit back and relax while the program carries out the task efficiently. Should you have any inquiries or recommendations, don't hesitate to reach out to us. We're always happy to help.