The process of moving applications, data, and workloads from on-premises servers or one cloud to a cloud environment.
Cloud migrations range from simple to complex. Common strategies include rehosting, often called lift and shift, which moves applications with minimal changes; replatforming, which makes modest adjustments such as switching to a managed database; and refactoring, which redesigns applications to use cloud-native services. Some systems are retired or replaced with software-as-a-service products instead.
For example, a regional distributor might move its file server and email to cloud services first, then migrate its inventory system later after testing. Migration planning usually involves inventorying systems, mapping dependencies, estimating costs, and deciding on security controls. Frequent problems include underestimating data transfer time, overlooking hidden dependencies, and higher-than-expected bills when applications are moved without optimization. A phased approach with clear rollback plans reduces risk.
Delivering computing resources such as servers, storage, databases, and software over the internet on a pay-as-you-go basis.
Hybrid CloudA computing setup that combines on-premises infrastructure or a private cloud with public cloud services, managed as one environment.
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