Older SQL Server deployments could configure Master Data Services to expose shared master data through a database and management application. These instructions should be read as historical.
Concepts and context
A former setup considered the MDS database, web application, IIS and service identities, model and entity permissions, application URL, and downstream integrations. Exact prerequisites depended on SQL Server release.
Practical application
Before changing an existing deployment, inventory databases, models, versions, integration jobs, user roles, backups, and dependencies. Export representative models and validate key relationships and business rules in a separate environment.
Compatibility and cautions
SQL Server 2025 no longer includes MDS. Do not follow legacy installers on a current instance. Compare a replacement solution’s governance, import/export, validation, security and auditing features before migration.
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