Managing system migrations
As DBAs, it is likely that we will eventually preside over a server replacement. Whether this is to avoid failed hardware or due to system upgrades, our job is to move PostgreSQL from one system to the next.
It is not simple to perform a server migration while simultaneously maintaining maximum availability. One of the easiest methods is limited to users of shared storage such as a SAN. Such storage can be reassigned to another server easily. Without a SAN or other means of shared storage, we need to utilize another method.
Luckily, PostgreSQL added streaming database replication in Version 9.1. With this, we can make a copy on the new server and switch to it when we're ready.
Getting ready
For this demonstration, we will need another server or virtual machine to receive a copy of our database. Have one ready to follow along. We will also be using a PostgreSQL tool named pg_basebackup. Check the PostgreSQL documentation regarding this utility for more information.
If...
