How to Convert MS Access Databases to MySQL

This article explores the process of converting an Access database to MySQL using a manual procedure and commercial software. The manual method involves setting up an ODBC DSN connection, opening the Access database, selecting the table to export, and exporting it to MySQL. However, this method has some downsides, including the requirement of technical expertise, the possibility of data inconsistency, and the need to install both Microsoft Access and MySQL on the system.

To overcome these issues, users can use commercial software, such as Access-to-MySQL Converter developed by Intelligent Converters. This software does not require the source database to be installed on the system, and it allows users to preview the data before converting it. Moreover, it preserves data integrity and can migrate a single table or complete Access database to MySQL server or into a local MySQL script file.

Manual Migration 

The manual procedure involves several steps, including setting up an ODBC DSN connection if one has not been configured, opening the Access database, selecting the table to export, and exporting it to MySQL. 

If there is no “MySQL Connector/ODBC DNS Data Source” configured on the system, it is required to create a new DNS for Connector/ODBC.

If the export process fails and an error message appears, users should ensure that they have selected the database to connect to the Connector/ODBC Data Source Configuration for MySQL. Also, it may be necessary to reconfigure the DNS and select MySQL database to connect.

However, the manual procedure has several downsides, including the requirement to install both Microsoft Access and MySQL on the system and the possibility of data inconsistency. Additionally, users may require technical assistance to perform the conversion, particularly for setting up an ODBC DSN connection.

Commercial Software

To avoid these issues, users can use commercial software, such as MS Access to MySQL converter provided by Intelligent Converters. This software allows users to preview the data to be converted into the destination file format, verify the data before saving it, and convert the Access database to MySQL online or offline. Moreover, it preserves data integrity and can migrate a single table or complete Access database to MySQL server or into a local MySQL script file. Additionally, it supports storing settings into profile to simplify next runs and supports command line arguments to script and automate the migration job.

In conclusion, migrating MS Access database to MySQL involves a manual procedure or commercial software. The manual procedure requires setting up an ODBC DSN connection, opening the Access database, selecting the table to export, and exporting it to MySQL. However, it has several downsides, such as the requirement to install both Microsoft Access and MySQL, the possibility of data inconsistency, and the need for technical assistance. To avoid these issues, users can use commercial software, such as MS Access to MySQL converter provided by Intelligent Converters, which allows users to preview and verify the data before converting it, preserves data integrity, and supports both online and offline conversions.