SQL Server PolyBase Accesses Big Data

SQL Server 2016 includes PolyBase, a database management technology that simplifies access to unstructured data stored in Hadoop and Azure Blob Storage. PolyBase can allow a wider audience of users to access unstructured data such as contact center logs and potentially create new reports and analysis using familiar SQL Server compatible tools. It can also help administrators import and export unstructured data using existing SQL Server skills and investments. However, use of Blob Storage is restricted to known data formats, and performance demands may require multiple servers that will bring additional cost and management complexity.

PolyBase Overview

PolyBase was originally developed for SQL Server Parallel Data Warehouse, a special edition of SQL Server used for data warehouse appliances that support hundreds of terabytes of data. The technology has gone through multiple iterations and enhancements over the years, allowing it to mature prior to its inclusion in SQL Server 2016. PolyBase is compatible with most SQL Server 2016 features.