We are looking to replicate our production database to another instance so that when reports are run, it doesn't slow down the application to the point of being barely usable. I had limited success with SQL Server Replication, but as the application fiddles with the data model from time to time, this approach was unsuitable.
When we spoke to the vendor (who told us that yes, it could be replicated) he revealed that their other clients use log shipping, which is my current direction. My only problem is the server runs SQL 2008, whereas the target server runs 2008R2. When I try to restore a backup in standby, it falls flat on its face, but if I use another instance that is the same version, the process runs flawlessly.
Is there a way to do it with different SQL Server versions, or am I stuck with the current arrangement?
Thanks