Why Consider Moving from SQL Server to MariaDB for UnityIS®

Updated April 1, 2026

Overview

As UnityIS® continues to evolve, our platform has been optimized to run on MariaDB. While UnityIS supports both Microsoft SQL Server and MariaDB, customers running MariaDB benefit from improved performance, lower cost, and a more streamlined deployment model.

This document outlines the key reasons to consider migrating.

1. Cost Savings (Immediate Impact)

Microsoft SQL Server comes with:

  • Licensing costs (per core or server)
  • Ongoing maintenance or Software Assurance fees

MariaDB is:

  • 100% free and open-source
  • No licensing restrictions
  • No recurring database costs

Bottom line:
You can eliminate database licensing costs entirely without sacrificing capability.

2. Performance Gains with UnityIS®

UnityIS has been optimized for MariaDB in our cloud and hybrid deployments.

Customers moving to MariaDB typically see:

  • Faster query response times
  • Better handling of high-volume transactions (events, logs, access activity)
  • Improved performance under load

Because:

  • Our engineering team actively develops and tests against MariaDB
  • Our cloud environment runs on MariaDB by default

Bottom line:
MariaDB is not just supported — it’s where UnityIS® performs best.

3. Simpler Deployment & Maintenance

SQL Server often requires:

  • Licensing setup
  • Version management
  • Windows Server dependencies (in many cases)

MariaDB offers:

  • Lightweight installation
  • Cross-platform flexibility (Windows or Linux)
  • Easier upgrades and maintenance

Bottom line:
Less overhead for your IT team.

4. Better Alignment with Future Development

UnityIS® innovation is increasingly aligned with:

  • Cloud-native architecture
  • Scalable, distributed environments
  • Faster release cycles

MariaDB fits naturally into this direction.

Bottom line:
Moving to MariaDB positions you for future UnityIS enhancements.

5. Seamless Migration Support from IMRON

We understand that database migrations can feel risky. We will support you through the process.

IMRON will:

  • Provide custom backup and migration scripts tailored to your environment
  • Assist with data validation and integrity checks
  • Help coordinate a smooth cutover with minimal downtime

Our goal is to make this transition as straightforward and low-risk as possible.

6. No Loss of Functionality

All UnityIS features are fully supported on MariaDB.

There is:

  • No reduction in capability
  • No change in user experience
  • No retraining required

Summary

Moving to MariaDB provides:

  • Lower cost (no licensing fees)
  • Better performance with UnityIS
  • Simpler management
  • Alignment with future platform improvements
  • Full support from IMRON during migration
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