Azure SQL Roadmap for SQL Server DBAs

Compare Azure SQL Deployment Models

Create a comparison table listing features, pros, and cons of Azure SQL Database, Managed Instance, and SQL Server on Azure VMs.

Expected output: A clear table comparing the three deployment options.

Hint: Focus on management, compatibility, control, and use cases.

Plan a Migration Strategy

Draft a migration plan for moving an on-premises SQL Server database to Azure SQL Managed Instance.

Expected output: A detailed migration plan document.

Hint: Include assessment, tool selection, testing, and cutover steps.

The main options are Azure SQL Database (PaaS), Azure SQL Managed Instance (PaaS with near full compatibility), and SQL Server on Azure Virtual Machines (IaaS).

Managed Instance offers near 100% compatibility with on-premises SQL Server and supports instance-level features, while Azure SQL Database is a single database PaaS with some feature limitations.

Azure Database Migration Service is the primary tool for seamless migrations. Backup and restore or transactional replication can also be used depending on the scenario.