Data Storage and Access

Before joining Directions on Microsoft, Rob worked at Microsoft for 14 years where he designed technologies for Microsoft products and... more

Azure offers several database management and data storage options that can be used with applications hosted on Azure and elsewhere. Microsoft’s SQL Server on-premises product can be hosted in an Azure Virtual Machine (using an Infrastructure as a Service [IaaS] model), while Azure SQL Database offers SQL Server technology in a Platform as a Service (PaaS) model. Nonrelational storage is available in several formats, and other services support NoSQL and data transformation across disparate data sources.

New Azure services are often introduced and typically remain in a reduced price preview state for three months to a year before becoming generally available for production. (See the illustration “Data Storage and Access Services Dates“.)

SQL Server in Azure VMs and Azure SQL Database

Microsoft offers multiple SQL Server database deployment options, including SQL Server on-premises, SQL Server in Azure VMs, and Azure SQL Database, an Azure-hosted relational database service. Each option supports many of the most common SQL Server database and development features and management tools. However, the options differ in control of the hosting environment, automated scaling and disaster recovery, database size, and availability of advanced features.

Atlas Members have full access

Get access to this and thousands of other unbiased analyses, roadmaps, decision kits, infographics, reference guides, and more, all included with membership. Comprehensive access to the most in-depth and unbiased expertise for Microsoft enterprise decision-making is waiting.

Membership Options

Already have an account? Login Now