Azure SQL Managed Instance: A Comprehensive Guide

Assess Database Compatibility

Use the Data Migration Assistant tool to analyze an on-premises SQL Server database for compatibility with Azure SQL Managed Instance.

Expected output: A compatibility report highlighting issues and recommendations.

Hint: Focus on deprecated features and unsupported functionalities.

Create a Migration Plan

Draft a migration plan for moving a multi-database application to Azure SQL Managed Instance, including downtime considerations and testing steps.

Expected output: A detailed migration plan document.

Hint: Consider using Azure Database Migration Service and network setup.

Azure SQL Managed Instance is a fully managed SQL Server instance in Azure that offers near 100% compatibility with on-premises SQL Server, including features like SQL Agent and cross-database queries. Azure SQL Database is a single database service optimized for cloud-native applications with some feature limitations compared to Managed Instance.

Key benefits include high compatibility with on-premises SQL Server, automated management like patching and backups, built-in security, scalability, and simplified migration paths.

Common tools include Azure Database Migration Service for minimal downtime migrations, Data Migration Assistant for assessment, and native backup and restore methods.