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Create new SQL server to replace old - Keep Machine Name

Hello:

I have a virtualized SQL server (we'll call SQL01). It is on the domain. I would like to move it to a physical box, but I need the physical box to keep the same name. The databases are huge. I'm looking for the best way to do this.

My concern is not knowing how SQL handles changes to the machine name. Not sure which is better:

1) Rename the old server to "SQL01-old", then name the new server "SQL01". Start the MSSQL install.

or

2) Install SQL on the new server, copy the database files over, then rename the servers

or

3) Something I haven't considered.

What do you think?

Thanks,

Dan

Jason Yousef

Hi,

which versions you're moving to and from?
which VM software you're using? there's tool to convert VM to Physical (V2P), just search for steps for your VM software version.
Just clone the VM as backup, then use the conversion tool to move over everything to the physical.

Let me know if you need more help.

Anthony Perkins

If you do have the need to change the server name, make sure you configure SQL Server with the new name.

ddotson

ASKER

We are using SQL server 2008. I'm not a big fan of conversions of I can avoid it. I'm aware that the V2P tools exist, but I don't know much about them.

acperkins: Do you mean that if I followed scenario 1, I'd need to configure the SQL servers? What if the SQL server and its new machine name never really went into production?

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Anthony Perkins

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ddotson

ASKER

Thanks for the help. Sorry for the delay - haven't pulled the trigger yet.