The below processes are for SQL Express and Full SQL only, and are not relevant to SQL CE.

Before any actions are taken, SkySync Files should be backed up to a folder on the desktop to prevent loss of connections and configurations

C:\Program Files (x86)\SkySync\appSettings.config

C:\Program Files (x86)\SkySync\connections.config

C:\ProgramData\PortalArchitects\Data\Keys

To prevent discrepancies between the SQL Servers the SkySync Service will need to be stopped. If any programs are in place that automatically start the SkySync service they will need to be disabled. All activity on the SQL database should also be avoided until the migration is complete to prevent database discrepancies.


The process of transferring the SQL database will depend on your individual setup. The setups below assume that you are using the same SQL login ID's after the transfer as you where before. If this is not the case SkySync may need to be reinstalled to utilize the new logins.

Scenario 1: SQL and SkySync are located on the same server and need to be moved to a new server

In this scenario SkySync and the SQL Database are located on the same Server or Virtual Machine, and need to be moved to a new server. To do this the SQL database will need to be moved, and SkySync will also need to be reinstalled on the new server with a custom install. Follow the processes 


Scenario 2: SQL and SkySync are installed on two separate Servers and only SQL needs to be moved

This scenario is most common with an SQL or server upgrade, resulting in the requirement of migrating SQL but not SkySync. As with any scenario the SkySync service should be stopped. After this the SQL Database will need to be moved to the new server. As long as the user IDs remain the same as they where before the migration SkySync will not need to be reinstalled. If however, the user IDs are changed then SkySync will need to be reinstalled. In the case where a reinstall is not necessary, simply edit the connections.config file located in C:\Program Files (x86)\SkySync to reflect the new SQL server name and restart the SkySync service. 

Scenario 3: SQL and SkySync are installed on two separate Servers and only SkySync needs to be moved

This scenario is most common a upgrade is occurring resulting in SkySync needing to be reinstalled on a new server/node. As with anytime a migration of any type is taking place it is important to stop activity on the database as well as stop the SkySync service. It is also necessary to move a copy of the Keys folder located at C:\ProgramData\PortalArchitects\Data\ to the new server. After this is done simply reinstall SkySync using the most recent installer on the new server being sure to use the custom install so that the SQL server can be specified. Once SkySync has been reinstalled copy the keys folder into the path C:\ProgramData\PortalArchitects\Data overwriting the folder that will have been created automatically. 

Moving SQL to a different server

The recommended method of moving the SQL databases is to perform a backup on the Source Database and a restore on the Destination database. Before this is done however the SkySync service should be stopped to prevent additional information being written on the old database. It should be kept in mind that SQL databases can still be accessed during the backup process and it is advised to have all users cease access while the migration is being performed. 

1) Stop the SkySync Service. If there are any programs which automatically start stopped services they will need to be disabled

2) Stop activities that access the SQL Database 

3) Backup the SQL database and move it to the new server

4) Restore the SQL database on the new server 

If SkySync is not being moved and therefore reinstalled, the connections.config file located at C:\Program Files (x86)\SkySync will need to be adjusted to reflect the new SQL Server and database.


This Microsoft support article explains how to transfer SQL databases in greater detail and can be used for reference if needed additionally individual articles on backup and restore have been added below.

For Steps on how to backup a SQL database see this Microsoft support article here.

For Steps on how to restore a SQL database see this Microsoft support article here.


Re-installing SkySync

In order to install SkySync you will need access to the latest installer, please contact support for a link or copy of it. 

1) Copy the Keys folder located in C:\ProgramData\PortalArchitects\Data from the source server to the new server and place it in a folder on the desktop. 

2) Download and extract the newest installer on the new server.

3) Ensure that the SkySync service has been stopped on the old server.

3) Double-click the SkySync.exe to begin the installation

4) Check the box to accept the terms and select Custom install before clicking next

5) Click next

6) Local System account is an option however it is recommended to select a specific Windows account created for SkySync login

7) Click Next

8) Select SQL Server from the drop down menu

9) Select or type the name of the SQL server 

10) Input the User Name and Password

11) Click Validate

12) Click Next

13) Once the installation is complete copy the old Keys folder to the directory C:\ProgramData\PortalArchitects\Data on the new computer.

The directory C:\ProgramData\PortalArchitects\Data is the default location but can be adjusted during installation.