What is Azure SQL? Basics and Benefits
With the proliferation of cloud computing, businesses are moving away from traditional methods of managing their databases and opting for cloud-based solutions. Azure SQL is a managed database service from Microsoft that offers businesses high scalability, security, and performance. So, what is Azure SQL and why choose it? In this article, we'll explore its key features and benefits.
Azure SQL Nedir?
Azure SQL is a fully managed database service from Microsoft on the Azure Cloud . It can be thought of as the cloud version of SQL Server, but with many automated features to reduce administrative overhead.
The different editions of Azure SQL are:
- Azure SQL Database – A scalable and secure service managed as a single database.
- Azure SQL Managed Instance – The closest managed version to traditional SQL Server, offering full SQL Server compatibility .
- SQL Server on Azure Virtual Machines – The option to run SQL Server in virtual machines is suitable for those who want more control.
Advantages of Azure SQL
There are many benefits of Azure SQL:
Fully Managed Service
Azure SQL automates many database management tasks:
- Backup - Automatic backup reduces the risk of data loss.
- High Availability – Provides high resilience against service interruptions.
- Automatic Updates and Patches – The system is always up to date against security vulnerabilities.
Scalability
Azure SQL can easily scale to your needs:
- Depending on the workload, you can increase the CPU, RAM, and storage resources.
- Thanks to automatic scaling, you can avoid performance issues.
Security & Compliance
Azure SQL is equipped with the most advanced security features from Microsoft:
- Encryption – Support for both at-rest (storage) and in-transit (communication) encryption.
- Threat Detection with Azure Defender – Detects suspicious activity and generates alerts.
- It offers advanced authentication mechanisms such as RBAC (Role-Based Access Control) and MFA (Multi-Factor Authentication) .
High Performance
Azure SQL delivers high performance with features such as Intelligent Query Processing :
- Automatic Tuning - Optimizes query performance.
- Fast Response Times – Minimizes delays.
Cost Advantage
Azure SQL offers businesses a cost-effective solution thanks to its pay-as-you-go model:
- It eliminates traditional hardware and licensing costs.
- Thanks to the serverless model , you are charged only when there is usage.
Getting Started with Azure SQL: First Steps
Getting started with Azure SQL is pretty simple. Here are the basic steps:
- Azure Portal
- Create a Database
- Configure the connection – Connect with SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS) or Azure Data Studio.
- Import data and run queries – Manipulate data with SQL commands.
Azure SQL Tiers
Azure SQL pricing tiers are optimized for different performance and usage scenarios. Azure SQL's Database-as-a-Service (DBaaS) model offers different pricing options, such as Pay-as-you-go and Reserved Capacity , based on your needs.
There are two main pricing models for Azure SQL Database :
- DTU (Database Transaction Unit) based pricing – Suitable for small to medium workloads.
- vCore (Virtual Core) based pricing – Recommended for large-scale and customizable workloads.
DTU (Database Transaction Unit) Based Layers
The DTU model provides performance based on a combination of CPU, memory, and IO and is typically used for small-scale databases . It's suitable for users who want to make performance decisions with less technical detail .
DTU Layers
| Layer | Usage Scenario | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Basic | Small applications, test databases | 5 DTU, 2 GB storage, low cost |
| Standard (S1-S6) | Medium workloads, enterprise applications | 10-100 DTU, up to 250GB storage, mid-range performance |
| Premium (P1-P15) | Applications requiring high performance | 125-4000 DTU, up to 1 TB storage, high IOPS |
When should the DTU model be chosen?
- For small and medium-sized applications
- For those who don't want to deal with technical details
- For those with predictable and stable workloads
vCore (Virtual Core) Based Layers
The vCore model offers more flexible control of hardware resources and is suitable for large-scale, customizable workloads.
vCore Layers
| Layer | Usage Scenario | Features |
|---|---|---|
| General Purpose | Most workloads, standard applications | Low cost, 2-80 vCore, 4-400 GB RAM, SSD storage |
| Business Critical | Low latency operations, high IOPS demanding applications | 2-80 vCore, 8-400 GB RAM, Premium SSD, high availability |
| Hyperscale | Large-scale databases (10 TB+), analytical workloads | Up to 100 TB storage, instant backup, fast scaling |
When should the vCore model be chosen?
- For large-scale applications and complex workloads
- For projects where performance requirements may increase over time
- For SQL Server license holders (cost advantage with Azure Hybrid Benefit)
Serverless Option
If usage varies , the Serverless vCore option may be preferred. In this model, Azure SQL scales based on usage and can be paused when not in use , allowing for lower operating costs .
When to choose serverless?
- If the workload is irregular and variable
- If you want to optimize the budget
- For databases operating at low load (e.g. test environments)
Azure SQL's different pricing models provide flexibility based on business needs.
- The DTU model is recommended for small-scale projects .
- The vCore model is more suitable for medium and large-scale projects .
- Options such as Hyperscale and Business Critical should be preferred for large databases and projects requiring high performance .
- The serverless model offers cost advantages for applications with fluctuating usage .
When choosing the most appropriate tier for Azure SQL, you should consider workload requirements, scalability, and budget . If you're unsure, it might make sense to start with Serverless or General Purpose .