Microsoft and Striim Partnership Enables Zero-Downtime Oracle Migrations to Azure SQL

Migrating mission-critical Oracle databases to cloud-native platforms presents significant operational challenges, particularly for enterprises requiring continuous availability. Traditional migration methods often necessitate disruptive downtime windows incompatible with strict business SLAs. Microsoft's strategic partnership with Striim addresses this through the Microsoft Unlimited Database Migration Program, enabling enterprises to migrate Oracle workloads to Azure SQL with zero downtime while maintaining data consistency.

Oracle vs. Azure SQL: Modernization Drivers

Oracle databases frequently underpin legacy applications requiring high availability, but their operational complexity and licensing costs drive cloud migration initiatives. Azure SQL offers fully managed deployment options (Flexible Server or Single Server) with automated patching, scaling, and integrated Azure services like Synapse Analytics and Azure Machine Learning. This transition reduces administrative overhead while enabling real-time analytics and AI integration impossible in isolated Oracle environments. The partnership specifically removes migration barriers for heterogeneous environments spanning SQL Server, MySQL, PostgreSQL, and NoSQL systems.

Architecture and Core Technology

Striim's log-based Change Data Capture (CDC) engine forms the migration backbone, reading directly from Oracle redo logs without impacting production performance. The architecture comprises:

• Source: Oracle databases (on-premises or hosted)
• Processing: Striim deployed in Azure for low-latency replication
• Target: Azure SQL database

Data flows securely via JDBC over ports 1521 (Oracle) and 1433 (SQL), with optional Azure Private Link for network isolation. Three CDC methods accommodate diverse Oracle environments:

1. Oracle Reader (LogMiner): Default method using Oracle's native API
2. OJet: High-throughput option for Oracle 21c or high-volume workloads
3. GoldenGate Trail Files: Integration with existing Oracle GoldenGate deployments

Striim's Oracle CDC documentation details privilege requirements for CDC users.

Migration Workflow: Key Stages

1. Source Preparation:

   • Enable redo log access
   • Create dedicated Striim user with SELECT ANY TRANSACTION and log view privileges
   • Establish connectivity via VPN/ExpressRoute or SSH tunnels

2. Target Preparation:

   • Provision Azure SQL instance
   • Convert Oracle schema using SQL Server Migration Assistant or Striim's Schema Conversion Utility
   • Grant INSERT/UPDATE/DELETE privileges to Striim service account

3. Pipeline Execution:

   • Initial Load: Bulk historical data transfer via DatabaseReader and DatabaseWriter components
   • CDC Synchronization: Continuous replication of transactions using TQL pipelines
   • Cutover: Application redirection after validation with tools like Striim's Validata

Business Impact and Program Benefits

The Unlimited Database Migration Program eliminates licensing barriers by providing unlimited Striim access at no cost. Performance benchmarks show:

• 1TB initial loads completed in 4-6 hours
• Sub-second CDC replication latency
• <5% overhead on source databases

Program support includes:

• Direct escalation paths to Striim engineers
• ECIF funding for partner engagements
• Cutover standby support

This solution transforms database modernization from high-risk projects into continuous operations. Enterprises maintain business continuity while transitioning to cloud-native architectures ready for AI integration and real-time analytics. For migration planning, contact Microsoft representatives via the Unlimited Database Migration Program portal.