A Step-by-Step Cloud Migration Guide
In the present internet age, migration to the cloud is no longer an option but a necessity. As an SME, startup, or big enterprise, Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Microsoft Azure offer unmatched flexibility, scalability, and affordability. But cloud migration must be planned properly so as not to disrupt business and provide maximum output.
Here is a practical guide to help your business migrate to AWS or Azure successfully
Step 1: Define Your Migration Goals
Before deciding between AWS or Azure, establish your top priorities:
• Do you need to reduce infrastructure expense?
• Do you need improved scalability or global access?
• Is your objective for your legacy applications to become modernized?
Know your “why” impacts your “how.”
Step 2: Evaluate Your Existing Infrastructure
Use tools like:
• AWS Application Discovery Service
• Azure Migrate
These scans provide an overview of your existing workloads and dependencies to gauge readiness. Know what can be picked up as-is, what must be re-architecting, and what must be replaced or repaired.
Step 3: Select the Proper Cloud Platform
Both AWS and Azure provide comparable core services but vary in their pricing models, integrations, and tools. Points to note:
• AWS: Leader in the industry with extensive third-party integrations and developed services.
• Azure: Seamless integration with Microsoft products (e.g., Office 365, Active Directory).
You may even adopt a multi-cloud policy if necessary.
Step 4: Select a Migration Method
There are several migration methods (also called the “6 R’s”):
1. Rehost (Lift and Shift) – Fastest; move apps without change.
2. Re-platform – Make minor tweaks to optimize cloud efficiency.
3. Refactor – Rebuild applications to take advantage of cloud-native features.
4. Repurchase – Replace with SaaS alternatives.
5. Retire – Retire redundant systems.
6. Retain – Keep some workloads on-premises (hybrid cloud).
Step 5: Design Your Cloud Architecture
Plan for:
• Network architecture
• Security and identity (IAM, firewalls, encryption)
• High availability and disaster recovery
• Compliance and governance (particularly if in regulated sectors)
Use AWS Well-Architected Framework or Azure Architecture Center as a guideline.
6. Start Small: Pilot Migration
Migrate a small, non-business-critical workload initially to pilot your process. This enables you to:
• Discover performance problems
• Validate security policies
• Optimize cost and resource allocation
Both AWS and Azure provide free trials and sandbox environments for pilot deployments.
7. Complete Migration
After the pilot is successful:
• Rank applications according to business impact
• Apply automated tools (AWS Application Migration Service, Azure Migrate)
• Closely monitor workloads
• Assure business continuity during cutover
Step 7: Refine and Monitor
After moving to the cloud:
• Utilize Cost Explorer (AWS) or Azure Cost Management to track and optimize expense.
• Apply auto-scaling and resource tagging.
• Always monitor with CloudWatch (AWS) or Azure Monitor.
Final Thoughts
A move to AWS or Azure is an empowering move towards digital transformation. Although the process appears to be complex, a systematic approach can ensure a smooth and secure migration. Collaborating with a certified cloud provider or consultant can also mitigate risks and speed up success.
Need Cloud Migrating Assistance?
Our experts work exclusively with AWS and Azure migrations customized for your business.
Contact us today to schedule a complimentary consultation.
