We are currently running a working SQL Server 2005 Failover cluster, with 2 nodes. We are now in the process of replacing the servers in that cluster with 2 new servers running SQL Server 2008, my question, should I add the new servers to the current cluster and then retire the old servers or create a new cluster and then copy the databases to the new servers?
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Personally, if there is no paper from Microsoft I would test each scenario (that is, set up 2 boxes with 2005 then 2 more with 2008). If you need a failover cluster you want to be sure it works. If you have to plan your downtime you will even know how long it takes.– Stephan BCommented Jan 2, 2012 at 14:10
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7Assuming your apps are easy to reconfigure and you have the storage space I would migrate your databases to the new cluster not for a technical reason but purely so there is a clear roll back path in the event of a problem. If you don't have the storage for 2 copies; add them into the cluster and then roll the old servers out after that.– u07chCommented Jan 2, 2012 at 14:21
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3@u07ch: that should be an answer...– gbnCommented Jan 2, 2012 at 15:17
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1 Answer
It would be cleaner and potentially more reliable to build your new SQL 2008 cluster first on new hardware. Do a test migration by restoring your databases from backups into your new cluster.
answered Jan 3, 2012 at 13:14
