Data Management Glossary
Warm Cutover
A so-called “warm cutover” is a strategy used during the migration or deployment of a new system, application, or infrastructure, including data storage. It involves transitioning from the old system to the new one with minimal downtime or service interruption. Unlike a “cold cutover,” where the old system is completely shut down before the new one is brought online, a warm cutover allows for some overlap where both systems run concurrently for a period. With the release of Komprise Intelligent Data Management 5.0, Komprise Elastic Data Migration supports warm cutover to enable a zero-downtime data migration.
More Information about a Warm Cutover Migration
Common characteristics / features include:
- Parallel Operation: In a warm cutover, the new system is brought online and begins operating in parallel with the old system. This means that both systems are running and serving users simultaneously for a period.
- Data Synchronization: During the warm cutover, data is continuously synchronized or copied from the old system to the new one to ensure that both systems have the same data. This may involve real-time data replication or periodic data transfers.
- Testing and Validation: Extensive testing and validation of the new system occur during the overlap period. This is crucial to ensure that the new system functions correctly, meets performance expectations, and is free of critical issues.
- User Transition: Users are gradually transitioned from the old system to the new one. This can be done in stages or based on user groups, and users are typically provided with guidance and training to adapt to the new system.
- Monitoring and Rollback Plan: Close monitoring of both systems is essential during the warm cutover to detect any issues promptly. Additionally, a rollback plan is prepared in case critical problems arise, allowing for a safe return to the old system if necessary.
- Final Transition: Once the new system is confirmed to be stable and meets all requirements, the final transition occurs. This involves redirecting all users and traffic to the new system while shutting down the old system.
Benefits of a Warm Cutover
- Reduced Downtime: Compared to a cold cutover, which involves a complete system shutdown, a warm cutover minimizes downtime. Users experience less interruption in service.
- Risk Mitigation: The ability to test and validate the new system extensively during the overlap period reduces the risk of unexpected issues or failures when transitioning.
- Smooth Transition: Users and staff have time to adapt to the new system gradually, reducing the potential for confusion and errors during the transition.
- Fallback Option: The presence of a rollback plan provides a safety net in case issues arise, allowing for a return to the old system without major disruptions.
Warm cutover data migration strategies are commonly employed in scenarios where system availability and data integrity are critical, such as in business-critical applications, e-commerce platforms, and other situations where continuous service is essential. They require careful planning, coordination, and testing to ensure a seamless transition from the old system to the new one.
Learn more about warm cut-over and other use cases supported by Komprise Elastic Data Migration
Learn more about Komprise Elastic Data Migration
Watch the webinar: Migration Best Practices