I will be migrating over a SQL Server to 2008R2. I have the server built and the roles installed. I even have SQL2008R2 installed on it and have successfully moved over a test database. The biggest question involves the SSL certificate that is on the server. Please let me know of any holes that you see in my plan below.
1. Detach all tables in the currently operating server
2. Copy those tables over to the new server
3. Attach the tables
4. Bring down the old server
5. Rename the new server to the same name as the old
6. Change the IP address to the same as the old server
7. Attach to the databases and verify their existence
I believe that the certificate will also operate properly since the server is the same name and IP as the location where it is now working. I will even move the wire over so that it is the same switch and port as the old server. Since the specs are the same (other than 2008R2 SQL on 64 bit OS) all connection strings will continue to work. Any issues foreseen with this plan?