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

A company is migrating an existing on-premises SQL Server database to Azure. The database has complex stored procedures, functions, and triggers that rely heavily on SQL Server-specific features. The company requires full compatibility with their existing SQL Server code and minimal application refactoring. Which Azure relational data service is the most suitable choice?

  1. AAzure SQL Database (PaaS)
  2. BAzure SQL Database Hyperscale
  3. CAzure SQL Managed Instance
  4. DAzure Database for PostgreSQL
Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: C. Azure SQL Managed Instance

Azure SQL Managed Instance offers near 100% compatibility with the latest SQL Server (on-premises) database engine, making it ideal for migrating existing SQL Server applications with minimal changes. It provides a fully managed service with extensive SQL Server feature support.

Why the other options are wrong

  • A. Azure SQL Database (PaaS) offers high compatibility but might require some code changes for highly SQL Server-specific features, making it less ideal for 'minimal application refactoring'.
  • B. Azure SQL Database Hyperscale is a deployment option for Azure SQL Database, offering extreme scalability, but it shares the same compatibility characteristics as standard Azure SQL Database, not full SQL Server compatibility.
  • D. Azure Database for PostgreSQL is a service for PostgreSQL databases and would require significant refactoring for a SQL Server application.

Azure SQL Managed Instance

A fully managed cloud database service that provides near 100% compatibility with the latest SQL Server (on-premises) database engine, suitable for lift-and-shift migrations.

  • Near 100% SQL Server compatibility.
  • Instance-scoped features (SQL Agent, cross-DB queries).
  • Fully managed PaaS service.
  • Suitable for lift-and-shift migrations.

Memory trick: Managed Instance is the closest match for SQL Server.

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