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Sharegate - How to speed up Microsoft 365 migration

October 11, 2024 - Migrations are SO much more than just lift and shift. Things can get complicated fast. If your organization is like most, you're dealing with a tangled web of data, lots of moving parts, and a deadline that's closing in fast.

What if we told you there's a way to speed up Microsoft 365 data transfer and keep things running smoothly? Instead of a one-machine approach that can drag your migration project on for ages, running concurrent migrations means you can recover lost time and hit those tight deadlines�helping you achieve accelerated outcomes.

Scroll on to dive into concurrent migration best practices and see how ShareGate's got your back!

So, what's the deal with concurrent migrations?

What they are

Concurrent migrations mean running multiple migrations at the same time across different workstations. This method increases data throughput for accelerated lift and shift�it segments workloads, making it easier to manage resources and maintain business continuity. Plus, if one migration stalls, the other keeps going.

Why concurrent migrations matter for Microsoft 365 migration projects

The benefits

Here's how running concurrent migrations can transform your migration experience:

• Less downtime: By running multiple systems at once, you cut down on disruptions. 
• Smooth moves: Fewer headaches = happier humans who are more likely to adopt the new environment. 
• Save $: When the migration gets done quicker, it means less potential revenue loss from extended outages. 
• Stay on schedule: Concurrent migrations help you meet tight deadlines�especially handy for mergers and acquisitions. 
• Smarter resource use: Split the load among different machines and optimize resources, so the process moves quicker. 
• Faster time to value:  A fast migration means your users can start benefiting from your organization's Microsoft 365 investment sooner. 

But wait�what about throttling?

If you've ever tried to binge-watch a show on bad WI-FI, you already know the pain of throttling.  

Throttling is Microsoft saying �Whoa, you're taking more than your fair share.� It's a security mechanism Microsoft leverages to prevent your system from overloading. You'll know you're being throttled if you see error codes like 429 (Too Many Requests) or 503 (Service Unavailable), slowing down your migration.

Truth bomb: migration timelines stretch out longer than planned. We get it, and we've been there. Estimating timelines can be tricky. 

IT admins often focus just on data transfer but lift and shift is only one part of the journey. With concurrent migrations, you have more control over this stage.

Top tips for running concurrent migrations with ShareGate

Ready to master concurrent migrations?

Here are five pro tips to set you up for success. Want more? We've got the full playbook in our guide and steps on how to use ShareGate to manage concurrent migrations, but here's a sneak peek: 

1. Shift the load to off-peak hours to mitigate throttling . Schedule migration for nights or weekends when the system isn't under pressure from regular workday traffic in addition to migration operations. 
2. Use distinct user credentials on each machine . Set up generic user accounts like �[email protected]�, [email protected], etc. This doesn't mean you need different people. One person can handle the concurrent migrations but use distinct login credentials to access the source and destination tenant on each machine, helping to sidestep throttling limits.  
3. Assign each migration machine to migrate to different workstations . This spreads out the workload and ensures your machines aren't fighting over the same resources. More machines working in parallel increases the data throughput and accelerates migration. 
4. Optimize your network . Make sure your network can handle the load. Test and optimize your network settings to ensure smooth data flow, even outside business hours. 
5. Test your migration :
   1. Start with one migration on a single machine
   2. If successful, add another job every 30 minutes
   3. If issues arise, lower the speed settings when using ShareGate for concurrent migration and test again
   4. Once everything is running smoothly, gradually increase performance settings for more speed

How ShareGate's unique licensing model supercharges concurrent migrations 

We're here for you before, during, and after your migration�covering everything from planning and optimization to governance and Microsoft 365 end-user training.  

With ShareGate, you get: 

Easy activations  

Each unique user gets access to ShareGate on any workstation�be it a server, laptop, or desktop. Easy peasy! 

Flexible licensing 

Our Migrate Pro and Enterprise plans come with 5+ activations for smooth concurrent migrations. Whether it's five users or one IT pro, you're all set!  

Less spending 

Why pay for separate licenses? Our 5-activation license costs less than two single ones.  

Stay in control 

Governance and security are a breeze with centralized reporting, permissions, workspace provisioning templates, and turnkey Microsoft 365 end-user training. 

ShareGate solutions are available in UK through Simple IT Distribution LTD, ShareGate Partner in the UK.

About Simple IT Distribution LTD

Simple IT Distribution LTD is backed by 10 years of experience in Value Added IT Distribution. What sets us apart from the crowd is our customer-centric approach, the quality services (consulting, implementation, training, support), and the people behind them, which are experienced and certified proffessionals. We provide sales and technical advice and deliver the solutions that best meed our customers' diverse technology needs. Our partners are hand-picked from the top vendors, and we back up their solutions with certified professionals, to give you nothing but the best.

For more information, please visit www.simpleit-distribution.co.uk .