Azure SQL Database - SQL Server on Azure Tutorial

What is Azure SQL Database?

Azure SQL Database is a Platform as a Service (PaaS) offering that provides a managed SQL Server database engine in the cloud. It supports most SQL Server features and is optimized for cloud workloads.

Unlike traditional on-premises SQL Server, Azure SQL Database removes the need for hardware provisioning, patching, and manual backups.

• Fully managed by Azure with automatic updates and patching.
• Built-in high availability with 99.99% uptime SLA.
• Supports elastic scaling to handle varying workloads.
• Automatic backups with point-in-time restore capabilities.

Key Features of Azure SQL Database

Azure SQL Database offers a rich set of features designed to simplify database management and improve performance and security.

• Dynamic scalability with elastic pools and serverless compute options.
• Advanced security including data encryption at rest and in transit.
• Intelligent performance tuning with automatic indexing and query optimization.
• Built-in threat detection and auditing for compliance.
• Integration with Azure Active Directory for authentication.

Creating and Managing Azure SQL Databases

Creating an Azure SQL Database can be done through the Azure Portal, Azure CLI, or PowerShell. The process involves selecting a pricing tier, configuring compute and storage, and setting firewall rules.

Management tasks such as scaling, backups, and monitoring are simplified through Azure's management tools.

• Choose between Single Database, Elastic Pool, or Managed Instance deployment models.
• Configure performance tiers like Basic, Standard, Premium, or vCore-based models.
• Set firewall rules to control access to the database.
• Monitor performance and resource usage via Azure Monitor and Query Performance Insight.

Security and Compliance in Azure SQL Database

Security is a top priority in Azure SQL Database. It includes multiple layers of protection to safeguard data and meet compliance requirements.

• Transparent Data Encryption (TDE) encrypts data at rest automatically.
• Always Encrypted protects sensitive data inside the database.
• Advanced Threat Protection detects anomalous activities.
• Role-based access control integrated with Azure Active Directory.
• Compliance certifications including GDPR, HIPAA, and ISO.

Scaling and Performance Optimization

Azure SQL Database supports flexible scaling options to meet changing workload demands without downtime.

• Scale compute and storage independently with vCore-based purchasing models.
• Use elastic pools to share resources across multiple databases.
• Serverless compute tier automatically pauses during inactivity to save costs.
• Automatic tuning features improve query performance over time.