Convert Access Database to SQL: Step-by-Step with Free Tool
Migrating from Microsoft Access to SQL Server can be a game-changer for growing businesses and developers looking for better scalability, performance, and security. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to convert your Access database to SQL — and introduce a free tool that makes query conversion fast and easy.
Why Convert Your Access Database to SQL Server?
Microsoft Access is great for lightweight database applications, but it starts to show limitations when:
- Multiple users access the same database
- You’re working with large amounts of data
- Security or remote access is a priority
SQL Server offers:
- Improved performance
- Stronger security
- Scalability for larger databases
- Cloud integration options via Azure SQL
What Gets Converted (And What Doesn’t)?
Before starting your migration, it’s important to understand what parts of your Access application can be converted:
| Component | Converted Easily? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tables & Data | Yes | Use SQL Server Migration Assistant (SSMA) |
| Queries | Yes | Use the Access SQL Converter (free tool) |
| Forms | No | Requires manual rebuilding or redesign |
| Macros | No | May need to be rewritten in SQL or app logic |
| VBA Code | No | Not automatically converted |
Tool Spotlight: Access SQL Converter (Free & Fast)
One of the trickiest parts of migration is rewriting queries. That’s where the Access SQL Converter from AccessUserGroups.org comes in.
Try it here: https://accessusergroups.org/sql-converter/
Key Features:
- Converts Microsoft Access SQL queries into TSQL format
- Cleans and reformats SQL for better readability
- Includes a VBA string generator tab (perfect for embedding into code)
- Dark Mode for low-light environments
- Select your SQL Server version for better compatibility
Key Features:
- Converts Microsoft Access SQL queries into TSQL format
- Cleans and reformats SQL for better readability
- Includes a VBA string generator tab (perfect for embedding into code)
- Dark Mode for low-light environments
- Select your SQL Server version for better compatibility
How to Use It:
- Paste your Access query into the left-hand panel
- Click Convert
- Copy the converted TSQL query from the right-hand panel
- (Optional) Switch to the VBA tab to copy code-formatted strings
Example:
Input Access Query:
SELECT tblCompanies.Company FROM tblCompanies WHERE tblCompanies.Company Like “*inc*”;
Converted TSQL:
SELECT tblCompanies.Company FROM tblCompanies WHERE tblCompanies.Company LIKE ‘%inc%’;
This tool converts wildcards, quotes, and JOIN syntax to make your query SQL Server-ready.
Step-by-Step: How to Migrate Your Access Database
Here’s how to handle a full database conversion:
- Backup your Access database (.accdb or .mdb file)
- Install SQL Server or Azure SQL
- Download SQL Server Migration Assistant (SSMA) from Microsoft
- Use SSMA to migrate tables and data
- Use Access SQL Converter to rewrite your saved queries
- Rebuild forms and macros as needed in your new environment
- Test the new setup thoroughly
| Pros and Cons of Migration Tools | ||
|---|---|---|
| Tool | Best For | Drawbacks |
| SSMA | Tables, schema | Doesn’t convert queries or code |
| Access SQL Converter | Queries | Doesn’t handle forms, VBA |
| Manual Rewrite | Full control | Time-consuming and error-prone |
Combining SSMA and the Access SQL Converter gives you the best of both worlds.
Common Issues and How to Fix Them
FAQ – Converting Access to SQL
Final Thoughts
The Access SQL Converter is an essential tool for anyone looking to convert Access queries to SQL — and when combined with SSMA and a solid migration plan, it becomes even more powerful. Whether you’re an IT pro or a business owner, this is a great first step toward modernizing your Access applications.
Need Help with Your Access Migration?
While this free tool saves time, a full Access-to-SQL migration can be complex — especially with forms, VBA, and macros involved. Book a Free Consultation with one of our Access Experts today. Let us help you migrate your data efficiently, with zero downtime and zero data loss.
