Sharing SQL 2005 database between 4.1.6 and 5
 

Hello All
I am wondering whether the configuration database running in SQL2005 can be shared between the existing BES 4.1.6 and the new BES 5. This would help me run both the versions in separate hardware and enable a smooth cut over as well.

Thanks in advance

IIRC you need to make a new one or upgrade the existing one.
Some one else will chime in soon.

I would go for a new instance dedicated for the new BES so there will be no conflicts with existing databases.
You can create a new instance with out restarting SQL 2005.

You absolutely CANNOT share the same config database with bes 4.x and bes 5.0.
though, you can have two different config databases on the same sql server instance without a problem. you will still need to run the database create exe that came with 5.0 but make sure to edit the config file to choose a different database name than your 4.x.... or else!

^^ What he said.

hehehe ... well ... you can share. Just don't look for support, or any functionality from the BES 4.x management interfaces.

Page 7 of the "BlackBerry Enterprise Server - Upgrade Planning Guide.pdf" tells you want you cannot do in a mixed environment.

Create a new database for the 5.0 server.
 

Use RIM's Enterprise Transporter tool to migrate users between the databases, very smooth transition from one release to the other.

I migrated over 300 users in a couple of days, doing small groups at a time.


Carl