How to Use the Configuration Migration Tool in Dataverse: A Step-by-Step Guide

The Configuration Migration Tool in Dataverse (previously known as Dynamics 365 CE) is an essential utility for exporting and importing configuration data. It’s highly useful for moving data such as metadata, customizations, and configurations between environments. Here’s how to use it effectively:

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Step 1: Download the Tool

The Configuration Migration Tool is part of the Microsoft Power Platform Tools package. To download:

• Go to the Power Platform Admin Center.
• Navigate to Data Management > Configuration Migration.
• Download the tool.

Step 2: Create a Schema

Before migrating data, a schema file defines the data to be exported. This schema allows you to specify which entities and fields to include.

1. Open the Configuration Migration Tool.
2. Select Create Schema.
3. Sign in to your Dataverse environment.
4. Add the entities you want to export by selecting Add Entity.
5. Choose specific fields, relationships, and lookup data if necessary.
6. Save the schema file.

Step 3: Export Data

Once the schema is ready:

1. In the Configuration Migration Tool, select Export Data.
2. Load your schema file.
3. Select an output location and give the file a name (typically saved as .zip).
4. Review the data and click Export. The tool will export all configuration data based on the schema.

Step 4: Import Data into the Target Environment

To import the exported data into a different environment:

1. Open the Configuration Migration Tool.
2. Choose Import Data.
3. Select the .zip file generated in the export step.
4. Connect to the target Dataverse environment.
5. Click Import. The tool will migrate the configuration data into the target environment.

Step 5: Validate Data Import

Once the import is complete, verify that the data is correctly migrated:

• Log in to the target environment.
• Review the configuration settings, entities, and records to ensure the import was successful.

Tips for Using the Configuration Migration Tool:

• Use in DevOps Pipelines: You can automate the export and import process using Power Platform DevOps tools for continuous integration and delivery (CI/CD).
• Handle Lookups Carefully: Ensure that all related records (lookups) are included in the schema to avoid broken references.
• Optimize Schema: Only export and import necessary configuration data to avoid performance issues.
• Backup Before Import: Always take a backup of the target environment before performing a data import.

By following these steps, you can efficiently move configuration data between Dataverse environments using the Configuration Migration Tool, ensuring that your environments stay synchronized.

hope this helps.