Microsoft Azure Data FundamentalsDescribe how to work with non-relational data on AzureEasy
A company is storing millions of sensor readings from IoT devices in Azure Blob Storage. Each reading includes a timestamp, device ID, and several numerical values. The company needs to analyze this data periodically for trends and anomalies using big data analytics tools like Azure Databricks. Which access tier is most cost-effective for storing this data, assuming it is accessed infrequently after initial ingestion but needs to be readily available for analytical jobs?
- APremium Block Blobs
- BHot access tier
- CArchive access tier
- DCool access tier
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Cool access tier
The Cool access tier is designed for data that is accessed infrequently (at least 30 days) but requires quick access when needed. This aligns with the scenario of sensor data that is accessed periodically for analysis, balancing lower storage costs with reasonable access times.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Premium Block Blobs are optimized for high transaction rates and consistent low latency, making them overly expensive for infrequently accessed analytical data.
- B. Hot access tier is for frequently accessed data, which would be more expensive for infrequently accessed sensor data.
- C. Archive access tier is for rarely accessed data with flexible latency requirements (hours), which is too slow for periodic analytical jobs.
Azure Blob Storage Cool Access Tier
An access tier for Azure Blob Storage suitable for storing large amounts of data that is infrequently accessed (at least 30 days) but requires quick access when needed.
- Lower storage cost than Hot, higher access cost than Hot.
- Minimum retention period of 30 days.
- Ideal for short-term backups, disaster recovery, and older, less frequently used datasets.
Memory trick: Hot, Cool, Archive: Know your data's temperature for storage.