Setup and Configure Transactional Replication with a Remote Distributor SQL Server - Step by Step

Introduction

This tutorial provides a comprehensive guide on setting up and configuring transactional replication with a remote distributor in SQL Server. It is designed for users operating within a Windows Domain using Active Directory and covers the process across three servers: one for the Publisher, one for the Distributor, and one for the Subscriber. The tutorial emphasizes user security to manage replication agent privileges effectively.

Step 1: Prepare the Environment

• Ensure you have three servers ready:
  • Publisher: The server where the data originates.
  • Distributor: The server that manages the replication process.
  • Subscriber: The server that receives the replicated data.
• Verify that all servers are running Windows Server 2019 and SQL Server 2017.
• Ensure that SQL Server Agent is running on all servers.

Step 2: Configure the Distributor

1. Open SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS).
2. Connect to the server designated as the Distributor.
3. Right-click on the Replication folder and select "Configure Distribution."
4. Follow the wizard:
   • Choose "Use this server as a distributor."
   • Specify the snapshot folder (ensure it is accessible by the Publisher).
   • Configure security settings for the distribution database.
5. Complete the setup and note the Distributor’s configuration settings.

Step 3: Set Up the Publisher

1. Connect to the Publisher server in SSMS.
2. Right-click on the Replication folder and select "New Publication."
3. Follow the new publication wizard:
   • Select the database you want to replicate.
   • Choose the publication type (Transactional).
   • Configure articles (tables, views, etc.) to include in the replication.
4. Specify the Distributor:
   • Choose the remote Distributor you configured earlier.
5. Set security settings for the publication.
6. Complete the wizard to finalize the publication setup.

Step 4: Configure the Subscriber

1. Connect to the Subscriber server in SSMS.
2. Right-click on the Replication folder and select "New Subscription."
3. Follow the subscription wizard:
   • Choose the publication you created on the Publisher.
   • Select the Distributor (remote Distributor).
   • Configure the subscription database where data will be replicated.
4. Set security settings for the subscription.
5. Complete the wizard to finalize the subscription setup.

Step 5: Monitor and Validate Replication

• Use replication monitoring tools within SSMS to check the status of replication.
• Ensure that data is being replicated from the Publisher to the Subscriber effectively.
• Consider using the Replication Monitor to track performance and troubleshoot issues.

Conclusion

Setting up transactional replication with a remote distributor in SQL Server involves careful planning and execution across multiple servers. Key steps include configuring the Distributor, Publisher, and Subscriber while maintaining strict security measures. After setting up, regularly monitor the replication process to ensure everything operates smoothly. For further learning, explore advanced replication configurations and best practices for maintaining data integrity.