Migrate Veeam to new Server

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through the process of migrating Veeam Backup & Replication from a Windows Server 2012 R2 running Veeam version 12.0 to a Windows Server 2016 with Veeam version 12.3. Additionally, we will transition the Veeam Backup Repository (VBR) configuration database from PostgreSQL to an Always On SQL cluster. This migration is essential for leveraging new features and improved performance.

Step 1: Prepare for Migration

Before beginning the migration process, ensure you have taken the following preparatory steps:

• Backup Current Configuration

  • Use the Veeam Backup & Replication console to export the current configuration.
  • Navigate to Configuration > Backup Infrastructure > Export Configuration.

• Document Existing Settings

  • Note down all settings, job configurations, and repository locations.
  • Ensure you have access credentials for the new server and SQL cluster.

• Install Prerequisites on the New Server

  • Install Windows Server 2016 and ensure it is updated.
  • Install the required components for Veeam 12.3.
  • Set up the Always On SQL cluster and configure it for Veeam use.

Step 2: Install Veeam on the New Server

Follow these steps to install Veeam Backup & Replication on your new server:

1. Download Veeam Version 12.3

   • Go to the Veeam website and download the latest version.

2. Run the Installer

   • Launch the installer on the new server and follow the prompts.
   • Choose the option to install Veeam Backup & Replication.

3. Configure SQL Database Connection

   • When prompted for the database, select the Always On SQL cluster.
   • Provide the necessary connection details and credentials.

4. Complete Installation

   • Follow the remaining prompts to finish the installation process.

Step 3: Migrate Configuration Database

Now, transfer the VBR configuration database from PostgreSQL to the new SQL cluster:

• Export Database from PostgreSQL

  • Use the following command to export your existing database:

    pg_dump -U username -h current_postgresql_server -Fc database_name > backup.dump
    

• Import to SQL Server

  • Use SQL Server Management Studio to create a new database.
  • Import the configuration data from the PostgreSQL dump.

Step 4: Restore Configuration in Veeam

After migrating the database, restore your Veeam configuration:

1. Open Veeam Backup & Replication Console

   • Launch the console on your new server.

2. Import Configuration

   • Go to Configuration > Backup Infrastructure > Import Configuration.
   • Select the exported configuration file and follow the prompts.

3. Verify Settings

   • Check that all settings, jobs, and repositories are correctly configured.

Step 5: Test Backup Jobs

Before fully switching to the new server, ensure that all backup jobs function correctly:

• Run Test Backups

  • Start each backup job and monitor progress.
  • Verify that backups complete successfully and are recoverable.

• Check Logs for Errors

  • Review the Veeam logs for any errors or warnings during the test runs.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You have successfully migrated Veeam Backup & Replication to a new server and transitioned the configuration database to an Always On SQL cluster. Make sure to monitor the new setup closely for any issues and consider documenting the entire process for future reference. For further optimization, explore the new features offered in Veeam version 12.3.