Proven methodologies for migrating federal databases and application workloads to AWS GovCloud and Azure Government without compromising availability, security, or compliance.
Cloud migration in the federal sector carries constraints that commercial enterprises rarely face. Data classification requirements may restrict which workloads can move to which cloud regions. FedRAMP authorization boundaries define what services are available. Authority to Operate (ATO) processes add months to timelines.
These constraints don't make migration impossible. They make planning essential. TGA's migration methodology front-loads risk assessment and compliance mapping so execution proceeds with confidence.
AWS's Six R's framework provides useful categories, but federal agencies need additional decision criteria: data classification level, FedRAMP authorization status of target services, existing ATO impact, and interconnections with on-premises systems.
Most federal migrations begin with Rehost for infrastructure components, progress to Replatform for databases (Oracle on-premises to RDS or managed Oracle on EC2), and selectively Refactor high-value applications. TGA recommends migrating no more than 20% of workloads in the first phase.
Database migration is typically the highest-risk component. Oracle databases with RAC configurations, custom PL/SQL, and decades of data require careful handling.
For Oracle-to-Oracle migrations, AWS DMS combined with Oracle GoldenGate provides the most reliable path. DMS handles the initial full load while GoldenGate maintains real-time synchronization, enabling cutover windows measured in minutes rather than hours.
For database modernization (Oracle to PostgreSQL), AWS Schema Conversion Tool automates approximately 80% of schema translation. The remaining 20% requires experienced DBA attention. TGA maintains a library of conversion patterns for common Oracle-to-PostgreSQL challenges.
During migration, systems exist simultaneously in on-premises and cloud environments, creating a temporarily expanded attack surface. Agencies must update System Security Plans before migration begins, maintain continuous monitoring across both environments, and plan post-migration ATO updates before execution.
TGA works with agency ISSOs and authorizing officials to develop migration-specific security documentation that satisfies NIST 800-37 requirements while keeping timelines on track.
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