azure, DP-900, Microsoft Certification

Describe the Azure SQL family of products including Azure SQL Database, Azure SQL Managed Instance, and SQL Server on Azure Virtual Machines (DP-900 Exam Prep)

 
This post is a part of the DP-900: Microsoft Azure Data Fundamentals Exam Prep Hub. 
This topic falls under these sections:
Identify considerations for relational data on Azure (20–25%)
   --> Describe relational Azure data services
      --> Describe the Azure SQL family of products including Azure SQL Database, Azure SQL Managed Instance, and SQL Server on Azure Virtual Machines

Note that there are 10 practice questions (with answers and explanations) for each section to help you solidify your knowledge of the material. Also, there are 2 practice tests with 60 questions each available on the hub below the exam topics section.

Microsoft Azure provides a family of relational database services collectively known as the Azure SQL family. These services are based on the Microsoft SQL Server engine and are designed to support a wide range of workloads—from fully managed cloud databases to lift-and-shift migrations.

For the DP-900 exam, you should understand the differences, use cases, and key features of:

  • Azure SQL Database
  • Azure SQL Managed Instance
  • SQL Server on Azure Virtual Machines

Overview of the Azure SQL Family

All Azure SQL offerings:

  • Use the Microsoft SQL Server engine
  • Support Structured Query Language (SQL)
  • Are designed for relational data workloads
  • Provide varying levels of management control vs automation

💡 The key difference is how much control you have vs how much Azure manages for you.

1. Azure SQL Database

Azure SQL Database is a fully managed Platform as a Service (PaaS) offering.

Key Features

  • Fully managed by Azure (patching, backups, updates)
  • Built-in high availability
  • Automatic scaling options
  • Intelligent performance tuning
  • Minimal administrative overhead

Deployment Options

  • Single database (isolated)
  • Elastic pool (shared resources across multiple databases)

Use Cases

  • Cloud-native applications
  • Modern web and mobile apps
  • Applications that do not require full SQL Server feature compatibility

✔ Best for: Simplicity, scalability, and minimal management

2. Azure SQL Managed Instance

Azure SQL Managed Instance is a Platform as a Service (PaaS) offering with near 100% compatibility with SQL Server.

Key Features

  • Managed service with automated patching and backups
  • Supports most SQL Server features (e.g., SQL Agent, linked servers)
  • Instance-level features (unlike Azure SQL Database)
  • Runs inside a virtual network (VNet)

Use Cases

  • Migration of on-premises SQL Server applications
  • Applications requiring instance-level features
  • Lift-and-shift scenarios with minimal changes

✔ Best for: Compatibility with existing SQL Server environments

3. SQL Server on Azure Virtual Machines

SQL Server on Azure Virtual Machines is an Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) offering.

Key Features

  • Full control over the operating system and SQL Server
  • You manage patching, backups, and maintenance
  • Supports all SQL Server features
  • Easy lift-and-shift migration

Use Cases

  • Legacy applications requiring full control
  • Custom configurations or unsupported features in PaaS
  • Scenarios requiring OS-level access

✔ Best for: Maximum control and full SQL Server compatibility

Key Differences at a Glance

FeatureAzure SQL DatabaseAzure SQL Managed InstanceSQL Server on Azure VM
Service TypePaaSPaaSIaaS
ManagementFully managedMostly managedCustomer-managed
SQL Server CompatibilityPartialNear 100%100%
OS AccessNoNoYes
Use CaseCloud-native appsMigration with minimal changesFull control / legacy apps

Choosing the Right Option

Think of the Azure SQL family as a spectrum:

  • Most managed → Azure SQL Database
  • Balanced → Azure SQL Managed Instance
  • Most control → SQL Server on Azure VM

💡 DP-900 Tip:
Questions often test your ability to match a scenario with the correct service based on:

  • Level of control required
  • Compatibility needs
  • Migration vs cloud-native design

Why This Matters for DP-900

On the exam, you may be asked to:

  • Identify differences between Azure SQL offerings
  • Choose the appropriate service for a scenario
  • Understand PaaS vs IaaS trade-offs
  • Recognize management responsibilities

Summary — Exam-Relevant Takeaways

✔ All Azure SQL services are based on SQL Server
✔ Use SQL for querying and management

✔ Azure SQL Database

  • Fully managed
  • Best for modern cloud apps

✔ Azure SQL Managed Instance

  • High compatibility with SQL Server
  • Best for migrations

✔ SQL Server on Azure VM

  • Full control (IaaS)
  • Best for legacy or highly customized environments

✔ Key decision factor = control vs management

Go to the Practice Exam Questions for this topic.

Go to the DP-900 Exam Prep Hub main page.

Leave a comment