Azure SQL Database and SQL Managed Instance Options

Azure SQL Database and Azure SQL Managed Instance are offered in multiple purchasing models, deployment models, and performance tiers that are distinguished by performance, capacity, feature limitations, and cost. The chart summarizes the purpose for each deployment and purchasing model combination.

Azure SQL Database

Azure SQL Database is intended for deployment of individual databases to a logical server. It is best suited for applications with relatively stable workloads. It provides most SQL Server capabilities but limits the use of some advanced features, such as in-memory processing and cross-database queries.

SQL Database deployment models include the following:

• Single Database, for individual, stand-alone databases
• Elastic Pool, for multiple databases sharing a pool of computing and storage resources.

Azure SQL Managed Instance

Azure SQL Managed Instance is intended for deployment of traditional SQL Server instances on dedicated resources that closely mimic on-premises SQL Server. It provides a practical way to migrate applications with multiple databases that must reside together. Azure SQL Managed Instance supports instance-level features, such as cross-database queries, and controls such as the resource governor that are not available with the other deployment models. The model also includes exclusive security controls, like network isolation and private IP addresses.