Introduction to SharePoint On-Prem
Architecture & Setup
Site Management
Lists & Libraries
Pages & Content
Permissions & Security
Search & Navigation
Automation & Workflows
Integration & Extensibility
Development & Customization
Administration & Governance
Migration & Upgrades
Compliance & Records Management
Upgrade Paths (Database Attach Method)
When moving from one major version of SharePoint on-premises to another (e.g., from SharePoint 2016 to SharePoint 2019), you can’t simply upgrade in place. The officially supported method for content migration is the database attach method. This process involves creating a new, clean SharePoint farm on the target version, then bringing over the content from the old farm.
The Process
The database attach method is a multi-step process that ensures a clean and stable upgrade. First, you install and configure a new SharePoint farm on the destination servers, but you don’t create any sites. Second, you take the content databases from the old SharePoint farm and back them up. You then restore these backups to the SQL Server connected to the new farm. Finally, using PowerShell commands, you “attach” these content databases to a web application in the new farm. The upgrade process happens automatically as SharePoint attaches the database. It validates the content and begins to upgrade it to the new version.
Key Benefits
This method is the safest and most reliable for a major version upgrade because it allows you to start with a fresh, clean environment. It avoids carrying over any corruption or issues from the old farm. This ensures that you get the full benefit of the new version and that the new environment is stable and ready for production.
Final Steps
After the content databases are attached and upgraded, you must also upgrade any service application databases (like Search or User Profiles) and re-apply any customizations, such as custom site templates, branding, or solutions, that were used on the old farm.
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