SQL Table to MySQL Migration: Complete Guide

Migrating a SQL Server table to MySQL is a common requirement for organizations that are shifting towards open-source, cost-efficient, and scalable database solutions. While both SQL Server and MySQL are relational database management systems (RDBMS), their internal architectures, data types, and query syntax vary—making migration a careful and structured process rather than a simple export-import task.

This guide covers the need, methods, challenges, and best practices for a seamless migration from SQL Server tables to MySQL.

Why Migrate SQL Server Tables to MySQL?

Organizations consider moving from Microsoft SQL Server to MySQL for several strategic and technical reasons:

1. Cost Optimization – MySQL is open-source and free for most use cases, while SQL Server often requires licensing fees for enterprise editions.
2. Cross-Platform Compatibility – MySQL runs efficiently on Windows, Linux, and macOS, offering greater flexibility.
3. Scalability and Cloud Adoption – MySQL integrates well with popular cloud services like AWS RDS, Google Cloud SQL, and Azure Database for MySQL.
4. Developer Preference – MySQL’s wide community support and compatibility with open-source ecosystems make it attractive for developers.
5. Performance for Web Applications – MySQL is lightweight and optimized for web-based and transactional workloads.

Pre-Migration Considerations

Before initiating the table migration, it’s essential to prepare both the source and target environments:

1. Database Compatibility Check – Ensure data types, constraints, and indexes are compatible.
2. Schema Analysis – Identify SQL Server-specific features like IDENTITY, NVARCHAR(MAX), or stored procedures that may not directly translate to MySQL.
3. Data Volume Assessment – Large tables require careful planning for performance and downtime minimization.
4. Backup and Recovery Plan – Always back up your SQL Server database before any migration.
5. Test Environment Setup – Run a test migration before applying changes to the production system.

Methods to Migrate SQL Server Table to MySQL

There are several methods—manual and automated—for migrating SQL tables to MySQL. The choice depends on the complexity, data size, and technical proficiency of the user.

Using Microsoft SQL Server Migration Assistant (SSMA) for MySQL

Microsoft SQL Server Migration Assistant (SSMA) is a free tool from Microsoft designed specifically to migrate SQL Server databases to other platforms, including MySQL.

Steps:

1. Download and Install SSMA for MySQL.
2. Connect to SQL Server Source.
   • Provide SQL Server credentials and select the source database.
3. Connect to MySQL Target.
   • Configure MySQL connection settings (hostname, port, user, password).
4. Select Tables for Migration.
   • Choose one or more SQL tables for migration.
5. Convert Schema.
   • SSMA converts SQL Server schema into a MySQL-compatible format.
6. Migrate Data.
   • Transfer data from SQL Server to MySQL using the migration wizard.
7. Validate and Test.
   • Check for data consistency and integrity after migration.

Advantages:

• Automated conversion of schema and data.
• Detects incompatibilities before migration.
• Minimizes manual intervention.

There are several methods to carry out this migration process from SQL Server database objects to MySQL. However, most of them are quite technical and require proper knowledge of the technicalities of the methods. This might result in errors or issues during or after the migration process. To resolve that issue and further proceed with the SQL Table to MySQL Migration, it is beneficial to use a trusted a reliable solution, such as SysTools SQL Server to MySQL Migration Tool. This tool is capable of migrating the database from SQL Server environment to MySQL environment, while maintaining the database integrity. Further it allows users to select only the specified database objects for migration. 

Using Data Export/Import via CSV

If you want a simpler, manual approach for individual table migration, the CSV method works well.

Steps:

Export SQL Server Table to CSV:

SELECT * FROM dbo.TableName
INTO OUTFILE 'C:\data\table_data.csv'
FIELDS TERMINATED BY ',' OPTIONALLY ENCLOSED BY '"'
LINES TERMINATED BY 'n';

Import CSV into MySQL:

LOAD DATA INFILE '/var/lib/mysql-files/table_data.csv'
INTO TABLE table_name
FIELDS TERMINATED BY ',' ENCLOSED BY '"'
LINES TERMINATED BY 'n'
IGNORE 1 ROWS;

Advantages:

• Simple and fast for small tables.
• Requires minimal setup.

Limitations:

• Manual process, not suitable for large or complex databases.
• Data type mismatches may occur.

Using MySQL Workbench Migration Wizard

MySQL Workbench provides a built-in Migration Wizard that can connect to SQL Server as a source database and automate much of the process.

Steps:

1. Open MySQL Workbench → Database → Migration Wizard.
2. Select Microsoft SQL Server as the source database.
3. Configure both connections (SQL Server and MySQL).
4. MySQL Workbench analyzes schema objects and data.
5. Review and execute migration.

Advantages:

• Visual interface.
• Suitable for users with limited scripting knowledge.
• Supports schema validation and data verification.

Ideal for:
Businesses migrating large datasets or requiring minimal downtime and zero data loss.

Best Practices for a Smooth Migration

• Perform schema validation before actual data transfer.
• Use transactional backups to ensure data integrity.
• Test thoroughly in a staging environment.
• Monitor performance post-migration and re-index tables if required.
• Document the migration process for repeatability and audit.
  

Post-Migration Tasks

Once migration is complete:

1. Validate data row counts and data accuracy.
2. Reconfigure application connection strings.
3. Rebuild indexes and optimize queries.
4. Set up monitoring and backup schedules in MySQL.

Conclusion

Migrating an SQL Server table to MySQL may seem challenging, but with the right tools and planning, it becomes a smooth and predictable process. Whether you choose Microsoft SSMA, MySQL Workbench, the goal remains the same—achieving an efficient, reliable, and scalable database environment that aligns with business needs.

By understanding the reasons, methods, and challenges, database administrators can ensure a successful migration without compromising data integrity or application performance.

You should also read about How to Migrate SQL Database from One Server to Another?