How to create and manage a SQL Server in Azure

Azure
SQL Server

About SQL Server

SQL Server is a relational database management system (RDBMS) developed by Microsoft Corporation. It is a software product that allows users to store, access, and manage large amounts of data, primarily structured data in tables.

SQL Server is used for a wide range of data management tasks, including storing and retrieving data, performing data analysis, and managing data security. Here are some of the key features and uses of SQL Server:

      • Data storage and retrieval: SQL Server allows users to store data in tables and query the data using SQL (Structured Query Language) commands.
      • Data analysis and reporting: SQL Server includes built-in tools for performing data analysis and generating reports, including SQL Server Reporting Services (SSRS), SQL Server Analysis Services (SSAS), and Power BI.
      • Data security and access control: SQL Server includes a range of security features, including authentication, authorization, encryption, and auditing, to ensure that only authorized users can access and modify the data.
      • Integration with other tools and systems: SQL Server can be integrated with other Microsoft products, such as SharePoint and Office, as well as with third-party tools and systems.



Creation of a SQL Server in Azure

In order to create a SQL Server in Azure: Sign in to the Azure portal: Log in to your Azure account on Azure Portal.

Create a new SQL Server: From the Azure portal home page, click on "Create a resource" and search for "SQL Server" in the search bar. Then, click on "SQL Server (logical server)" from the results.


Open Azure Marketplace


Configure the SQL Server: In the "Basics" tab, select your subscription, resource group, and region for the SQL Server. Choose a name for the server. Configure the Compute + Storage, Backup, and Security options as per your requirements.


Create SQL Database Server


Review and create the SQL Server: Review the settings and click "Review + create" to create the SQL Server.

Configure the Firewall settings: By default, the SQL Server will have a firewall that blocks all external access. You need to configure the firewall to allow access to the server. To do this, go to the "Networking" tab in the SQL Server page and click "Add client IP" to allow your current IP address to access the server. Alternatively, you can configure the firewall to allow access from specific IP addresses or ranges.


Add SQL Server Networking Options



Creation of a SQL Database in Azure

Create a new SQL Database: From the Azure portal home page, click on "Create a resource" and search for "SQL Database" in the search bar. Then, click on "SQL Database" from the results.. Configure the database name, collation, and other options as per your requirements.


Open Azure Marketplace Again


Configure the database settings: Choose the edition and performance level for the database. Select the Compute + Storage, Backup, and Advanced settings as per your requirements. Review and create the database: Review the database settings and click "Create" to create the SQL database in the SQL Server.


Create SQL Database


Once the SQL Server and database are created in Azure, you can connect to them using any SQL Server management tool, such as SQL Server Management Studio or Azure Data Studio, using the provided server name, login, and password. You can also configure additional security features, such as Azure Active Directory authentication or Virtual Network Service Endpoints, to secure your SQL Server and database.



Further Microsoft SQL Server information

When compared to other database choices, such as MySQL, PostgreSQL, and Oracle Database, SQL Server has several advantages and disadvantages:

Advantages of SQL Server:

    • Integration with Microsoft ecosystem: SQL Server is a Microsoft product, and therefore it is integrated with other Microsoft products such as Visual Studio, Excel, and SharePoint, making it easier to use for developers who are already familiar with these tools.

    • Built-in tools and features: SQL Server has a range of built-in tools and features for data analysis and reporting, making it a good choice for businesses that need to generate reports and perform complex data analysis.

    • Good support: Microsoft provides good support for SQL Server, with regular updates, patches, and bug fixes, as well as a large community of users and developers who can provide assistance.

Disadvantages of SQL Server:

    • Cost: SQL Server is a commercial product, and therefore it can be expensive for businesses that are on a tight budget.

    • Platform-specific: SQL Server is a Microsoft product, and therefore it only runs on Windows operating systems, making it less flexible than other database choices that can run on multiple platforms.

    • Resource-intensive: SQL Server can be resource-intensive, requiring significant computing power and memory to run efficiently, especially for large databases.



Conclusions

Overall, SQL Server is a powerful and flexible RDBMS that can be a good choice for businesses that need to manage large amounts of data and perform complex data analysis and reporting. However, businesses should carefully consider their specific needs and budget before choosing SQL Server or any other database product.