Microsoft Azure Data FundamentalsDescribe how to work with relational data on AzureHard

A company is considering migrating its on-premises PostgreSQL database to Azure. The database experiences highly fluctuating workloads, with periods of intense activity followed by long periods of inactivity. The company wants a cost-effective solution that automatically scales compute resources up and down based on demand, and pauses billing during inactive periods. Which Azure Database for PostgreSQL deployment option should they choose?

  1. AAzure Database for PostgreSQL - Serverless
  2. BAzure Database for PostgreSQL - Single Server
  3. CAzure Database for PostgreSQL - Flexible Server
  4. DAzure Database for PostgreSQL - Hyperscale (Citus)
Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: A. Azure Database for PostgreSQL - Serverless

Azure Database for PostgreSQL - Serverless is specifically designed for intermittent and unpredictable workloads by automatically scaling compute resources and pausing billing during periods of inactivity. This makes it highly cost-effective for the described scenario.

Why the other options are wrong

  • B. Single Server is a fixed-size deployment option that does not offer automatic compute scaling or pausing, leading to higher costs during inactive periods.
  • C. Flexible Server offers more control and cost optimization features than Single Server (like stop/start), but it does not provide automatic, on-demand compute scaling to zero and pausing billing during inactivity like the Serverless option.
  • D. Hyperscale (Citus) is designed for large-scale, distributed databases requiring extreme horizontal scaling, not primarily for cost optimization with fluctuating, intermittent workloads.

Azure DB for PostgreSQL Serverless

A deployment option for Azure Database for PostgreSQL that automatically scales compute capacity based on demand and pauses billing during periods of inactivity, optimized for intermittent and unpredictable workloads.

  • Automatic compute scaling based on workload.
  • Pauses billing during inactivity.
  • Cost-effective for intermittent workloads.
  • Ideal for dev/test, infrequent applications, and bursty workloads.

Memory trick: Serverless for savings on sporadic demand.

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