Migrating data from SQL Server to IBM DB2

This guide walks you through migrating data from SQL Server to IBM DB2 in a few simple steps using ESF Database Migration Toolkit. Simplify complex migration tasks and save valuable time with our streamlined approach.

SQL Server vs. IBM DB2:

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.
IBM DB2 is a high-performance relational database management system (RDBMS) developed by IBM, designed to handle large volumes of data and support complex transactions. It offers robust features for data management, security, and scalability, making it suitable for enterprises of all sizes. DB2 is known for its efficiency in processing SQL queries, its advanced analytics capabilities, and its integration with various platforms, including cloud environments. It supports a range of operating systems such as Windows, UNIX, and Linux, and provides tools for database automation, optimization, and administration.

Prerequisite:

Software Required:

DMToolkit_x64.zip (63.6 MiB)	64-bit Windows application for ESF Database Migration Toolkit 12.2.09 (2025-07-16). (md5: 665b75949ae01ada4385c4ed0781afab)
DMToolkit_win32.zip (58.8 MiB)	32-bit Windows application for ESF Database Migration Toolkit 12.2.09 (2025-07-16). (md5: e2e2bc99710fcc2ade03c7c6562c2258)

System Supported:
- Windows 7 or higher.
- SQL Server 6.5 or higher.
- IBM DB2 9.x or higher.

Step by Step Wizard:

Configure Microsoft SQL Server Data Source
- In the "Choose a Data Source" dialog:
  - Select "Microsoft SQL Server"
- Server connection details:
  - Enter host name (include instance if needed): e.g., localhost\sqlexpress
  - For TCP/IP connections:
    - Port number: 0 (default, uses named pipes)
    - Provide username (e.g., sa) and password
- Authentication method:
  - Check Windows Authentication checkbox for integrated security
- Database configuration:
  - Click Refresh Database to list databases
  - Select existing database or enter new database name
    - New databases are automatically created during migration
- Schema configuration:
  - Click Refresh Schema to list schemas
  - Select existing schema or enter new schema name
    - New schemas are automatically created during migration
    - Default: dbo (if left empty)
Fig. 1: Microsoft SQL Server data source configuration
Configure IBM DB2 Data Source
- In the "Choose a Destination" dialog:
  - Select "IBM DB2"
- Enter server connection details:
  - Server name: localhost (default)
  - Port: 50000 (default)
- Provide authentication credentials:
  - Username: db2admin (default)
  - Password
- In the Database field:
  - Enter source DB2 database name
- Schema selection:
  - Click the Refresh button to load available schemas
  - Select target schema from the list
Fig. 2: IBM DB2 data source 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 Server to IBM DB2.
  
  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.