Migrating an application from a monolithic to a microservices-based architecture is a complex and time-consuming process but is often necessary to meet modern customer expectations for flexibility and rapid deployment. Monolithic applications, which combine all elements into a single executable, can be challenging to modify and scale, prompting organizations to consider microservices for their independent development and deployment advantages. However, a lift-and-shift approach to the cloud may not suffice, as refactoring for microservices can yield better long-term cost savings and performance. The transition involves understanding the monolithic architecture, incrementally refactoring components, and ensuring that the new microservices are loosely coupled to minimize dependencies. Teams must choose appropriate technologies for each service, factor in security at every stage, and employ end-to-end observability to manage application complexity. Utilizing a unified observability and security platform like Dynatrace can aid in tracking dependencies, monitoring performance, and optimizing user experiences throughout the migration process. This comprehensive approach, supported by automation and intelligent observability, allows for efficient monitoring, adaptation, and scaling of microservices, ultimately enhancing business outcomes.