This session is designed to help you modernize with confidence covering upgrading to SQL Server 2025 and migrating to Azure SQL.

In this session, we'll start with a brief look at the evolution of the SQL Server platform and how Microsoft’s data platform strategy has evolved from traditional on-premises deployments to fully managed cloud services. From there, we'll dive into the latest innovations in SQL Server 2025, including performance, security, availability, and AI-driven enhancements that provide compelling reasons to upgrade from older SQL Server releases.

We'll then explore the Azure SQL portfolio in depth, covering Azure SQL Database, Hyperscale, Azure SQL Managed Instance, and Azure SQL Virtual Machines. You'll learn the architectural differences between these services, where each solution excels, and how to select the right deployment model based on business, operational, and technical requirements.

Beyond product features, this session focuses on real-world modernization scenarios. We'll discuss common brownfield and greenfield migration patterns, application compatibility considerations, operational tradeoffs, and lessons learned from customer modernization projects. Attendees will gain practical guidance on assessing existing SQL Server estates, identifying modernization opportunities, and reducing migration risk through Microsoft's assessment and migration tooling.

Finally, we will cover methods to evaluate workloads and quickly identify the most appropriate Azure SQL destination based on technical requirements, operational preferences, and modernization goals.

Whether you're a DBA, architect, developer, or IT decision maker, you'll leave with a practical framework for modernizing SQL Server workloads and accelerating your path to Azure with greater confidence and clarity.