Recommend a solution for migrating workloads to IaaS and PaaS
5 minutes
5 Questions
Migrating workloads to Azure IaaS and PaaS requires a structured approach combining assessment, planning, and execution phases. Start with Azure Migrate to discover and assess on-premises workloads, evaluating dependencies, performance metrics, and compatibility. For IaaS migrations, Azure Migrate …Migrating workloads to Azure IaaS and PaaS requires a structured approach combining assessment, planning, and execution phases. Start with Azure Migrate to discover and assess on-premises workloads, evaluating dependencies, performance metrics, and compatibility. For IaaS migrations, Azure Migrate Server Migration handles VMware, Hyper-V, and physical servers through replication and cutover. Use Azure Site Recovery for lift-and-shift scenarios requiring minimal changes. Consider Azure Database Migration Service for database workloads, supporting both online and offline migrations to Azure SQL Database or Managed Instances. For PaaS transitions, evaluate application modernization opportunities. Containerize applications using Azure Kubernetes Service or App Service for web applications. Leverage Azure SQL Database for relational data, Azure Cosmos DB for NoSQL requirements, and Azure Storage for unstructured data. The migration strategy should follow the 5 Rs framework: Rehost (lift-and-shift to IaaS), Refactor (minor modifications for PaaS), Rearchitect (significant changes for cloud-native benefits), Rebuild (complete rewrite), and Replace (adopt SaaS alternatives). Prioritize workloads based on business criticality, complexity, and cloud readiness. Implement landing zones following Azure Cloud Adoption Framework for governance, security, and networking foundations. Use hub-spoke topology for network architecture, Azure Policy for compliance, and Management Groups for hierarchical organization. Address hybrid connectivity through ExpressRoute or VPN Gateway. For data migration, utilize Azure Data Box for large offline transfers or AzCopy for online scenarios. Implement proper testing environments and rollback procedures. Consider cost optimization through Reserved Instances, Azure Hybrid Benefit for existing licenses, and right-sizing recommendations from Azure Advisor. Monitor migrations using Azure Monitor and Log Analytics. Document dependencies and establish clear success criteria before each migration wave. Post-migration, implement Azure Backup, disaster recovery, and continuous optimization practices.
Recommend a Solution for Migrating Workloads to IaaS and PaaS
Why Is This Important?
Understanding how to recommend migration solutions for IaaS and PaaS is critical for Azure Solutions Architects because organizations are constantly moving workloads to the cloud. Making the right recommendation ensures cost efficiency, optimal performance, and minimal disruption during migration. This topic is heavily tested on the AZ-305 exam as it reflects real-world architectural decision-making.
What Is IaaS and PaaS Migration?
Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) migration involves moving virtual machines, storage, and networking components to Azure while maintaining control over the operating system and applications. Examples include Azure Virtual Machines and Azure Virtual Networks.
Platform as a Service (PaaS) migration involves moving applications to managed services where Azure handles the underlying infrastructure. Examples include Azure App Service, Azure SQL Database, and Azure Kubernetes Service.
How Does Migration Work?
Azure provides several tools and strategies for migration:
1. Azure Migrate - A centralized hub for discovering, assessing, and migrating on-premises servers, databases, and applications.
2. Azure Database Migration Service - Facilitates database migrations to Azure SQL Database, Azure SQL Managed Instance, or SQL Server on Azure VMs.
3. Azure Site Recovery - Enables replication of on-premises VMs to Azure for disaster recovery and migration scenarios.
4. Migration Strategies (The 5 Rs): - Rehost (Lift and Shift): Move workloads to IaaS with minimal changes - Refactor: Make minimal code changes to leverage PaaS services - Rearchitect: Significantly modify applications for cloud-native benefits - Rebuild: Create new cloud-native applications from scratch - Replace: Switch to SaaS solutions
When to Choose IaaS vs PaaS
Choose IaaS when: - You need full control over the operating system - Legacy applications cannot be modified - Custom software or drivers are required - Compliance requires specific configurations
Choose PaaS when: - You want to reduce operational overhead - Applications can leverage managed services - Rapid development and deployment are priorities - Built-in high availability and scaling are needed
Exam Tips: Answering Questions on Migration to IaaS and PaaS
1. Read requirements carefully - Look for keywords like minimal changes (suggests IaaS/rehost), reduce management overhead (suggests PaaS), or legacy application (usually IaaS).
2. Know Azure Migrate capabilities - It supports discovery, assessment, and migration of VMware, Hyper-V, physical servers, and databases.
3. Understand dependency mapping - Azure Migrate can identify dependencies between servers to plan migration waves.
4. Remember Azure SQL options: - SQL Server on VMs = IaaS (full SQL Server control) - Azure SQL Managed Instance = PaaS (near 100% compatibility with on-premises SQL) - Azure SQL Database = PaaS (best for new cloud-native apps)
5. Consider hybrid scenarios - Azure Arc extends Azure management to on-premises and multi-cloud environments.
6. Think about downtime requirements - Online migrations minimize downtime; offline migrations are simpler but require maintenance windows.
7. Cost considerations matter - PaaS typically reduces long-term operational costs, while IaaS may have lower initial migration costs.
8. Watch for compliance hints - Specific regulatory requirements often point toward IaaS for greater control or Azure SQL Managed Instance for data residency.
9. Azure App Service Migration Assistant - Know this tool helps assess and migrate .NET and PHP web applications to Azure App Service.