What is Active Directory Migration?

Active Directory Migration, more popularly known as ADM, is a process of transfer. While this explanation might be overly simplified for pros, it is the starting point of understanding. Therefore, buckle up, grab a coffee, and get comfortable, we are in for a ride with this topic.

Understanding active directory migrations often makes or breaks the decision. This transfer of data is a hefty and complex process. Just imagine all of your precious data compiled and set to move elsewhere. You will want to know what you are in for to avoid any disruptions. 

This is why we are bringing you several key tips and tricks as well as the list of all of the necessary questions you need to pose before you jump into this important decision yourself. 

Basics of Active Directory Migration 

Odds are that you are not looking into active directory migration just for fun. No one really does that. On the contrary, you might be on the hunt for a technological upgrade that suits you or your organization in a safer, faster, more reliable way than what you currently have.

What it entails is the transfer of data, such as users, contacts, emails, email attachments, calendars, and more from one domain to another. Choosing a proper domain is one of the most important things you can do for your business when it comes to technical things. 

The severity of this step usually involves professional consultants who make sure that your move is as seamless as possible, which it easily can be. Internal preps are also crucial. 

Why do you need Active Directory Migration? 

Active Directory Migration is a synonym for a functionality upgrade. Reasons for opting for ADM vary, but usually entail several strong points that make them an appealing solution.

You will find that you can achieve a substantially higher level of security, making it easier to avoid common liabilities and risks for your organization’s data, contacts, and functioning. 

However, a migration might also mean you are getting access to better functionality, a faster system as well as more available features and attributes to work with that will make you, your employees, partners, and clients more satisfied with your product or service.

To put it in simple terms - the whole point of an ADM is to make your life and your work a more seamless experience in terms of user experience. This rings true for administrators as well as end users, while you will have access to all of the benefits as a business. 

What is the Active Directory Migration Tool? 

The Active Directory Migration Tool, otherwise known as ADMT, is a free tool developed by Microsoft that administrators can use to move any Active Directory or AD. A reliable tool for many, it speeds up migration and lowers any risks during the overall moving procedure. 

This tool in particular is used for optimizing the arrangement of Active Directory within the AD space, as well as merging domains, automatization of migrations, migration of individual objects, groups of objects, workstations, and much more. 

This tool is reliable and completely free to use, and it comes with a relatively easy set-up process. In terms of storing data, you will need a SQL server. Keep in mind that ADMT will not function on Read-Only Domain Controllers. As long as you have Windows 2008 or later versions, you should have no issues setting ADMT up.

A strong selling point for ADMT is the fact that it provides a zero-impact migration. What this means is that you are not expected to run into any disruptions during the moving process.  

Questions to ask before Active Directory Migration 

While you don't need to know every step of the process if you are not the one running the migration, there are questions to ask that will serve as a safety net. 

The following questions will also help you avoid common issues and misunderstandings. Without further ado, let’s get into them. 

• How long is the migration process going to take? 

• Can we work freely during the migration? 

• What data will be saved and what will be lost? 

• What are possible issues we can run into? 

• Do you recommend backing up our data beforehand?

• Is there someone that we can contact throughout the entirety of the process? 

• How much does a consultant’s help cost? 

These questions are a good starting point. However, we recommend you ask questions specific to your organization before diving into ADM.