08 Apr

Step-by-Step Guide to Migrate Google Workspace to Office 365

Posted at 14:46h in Blog, Digital Transformation, SharePoint by Nithin DG 0 Comments

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Switching from Google Workspace to Microsoft 365 is a strategic move for businesses aiming to enhance productivity, security, and integration with Microsoft tools. Whether you’re scaling up or seeking better collaboration features, understanding the migration process is crucial.

This guide provides a step-by-step solution on how to successfully migrate from Google Workspace to Office 365, also known as G Suite to Office 365 migration step by step.

Why Migrate from Google Workspace to Office 365?

Before jumping into the technicalities, here’s why many businesses are migrating from Google Workspace to Microsoft 365:

Better integration with Microsoft Office apps (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)

Advanced security features

More comprehensive compliance tools

Seamless Teams and Outlook integration

Centralized admin control

Pre-Migration Checklist

Before beginning your Google Workspace to Microsoft 365 migration, ensure:

Admin access to both Google Workspace and Microsoft 365

A valid Microsoft 365 subscription

Domain ownership verification on both platforms

All users and mailboxes are created in Microsoft 365.

You’ve chosen your migration method (manual or tool-based).

Step-by-Step Guide: Migrate Google Workspace to Office 365

Here is the G Suite to Office 365 migration step-by-step breakdown:

Step 1: Prepare Your Microsoft 365 Environment

Sign in to the Microsoft 365 Admin Center.
Verify your domain (e.g., using a TXT record from Google DNS).
Add users and assign licenses in Microsoft 365.

Step 2: Enable Google Workspace API Access

Sign in to your Google Admin Console.
Enable Gmail API and Contacts API for migration.
Create a service account in Google Cloud Platform and generate credentials.
Grant domain-wide delegation to your service account.

Step 3: Set Up Migration Endpoint in Microsoft 365

In the Microsoft 365 Exchange Admin Center, go to Migration > Endpoints.
Choose Google Workspace (Gmail).
Provide the service account key and validate the connection.

Step 4: Create a Migration Batch

Go to the Migration section in the Exchange Admin Center.
Click +New Migration Batch.
Upload the user list (CSV format) with the source and target email addresses.
Choose options like email forwarding, scheduling, and notifications.

Google Workspace to Office 365 Migration Made Easy

Learn how to migrate Google Workspace to Microsoft 365 with zero data loss and minimal downtime using this expert-approved strategy.

Step 5: Start the Migration

Initiate the migration batch.

Monitor progress and resolve any failed items.

Once complete, verify mail delivery in Microsoft 365.

Step 6: Update DNS Records

Update MX records in your domain registrar to point to Microsoft 365.

Allow up to 48 hours for global DNS propagation.

Step 7: Decommission Google Workspace

Ensure no data is left behind.

Disable user access and cancel subscriptions.

Best Practices During Migration

Backup your Google Workspace data before starting.

Migrate during weekends or non-peak hours.

Communicate clearly with your team about the change.

Train employees on using Microsoft 365 apps.

Test with a pilot migration before a full rollout.

FAQs

How long does it take to migrate from Google Workspace to Office 365?

It depends on the size of your mailbox data and the number of users. Small organizations may complete it in a few hours, while large ones might take several days.

Can I migrate Google Docs, Sheets, and Slides to Office 365?

Yes. While email and calendar are straightforward, Google Docs can be exported and then uploaded to OneDrive or SharePoint in formats compatible with Word, Excel, or PowerPoint.

Is there downtime during the migration process?

If planned properly, downtime can be minimal. Users can continue working in Google Workspace until the final switch is made after MX record changes.

Conclusion:

Conducting a Google Workspace to Microsoft 365 migration can feel complex, but with the right planning and step-by-step execution, the transition can be smooth. Whether you’re doing it manually or using a tool, this guide will help ensure success in your journey to a more integrated Microsoft 365 ecosystem.

If you need professional assistance to migrate from Google Workspace to Office 365, working with experienced migration service providers can further minimize risks and ensure efficiency.

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