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
--> Identify Azure database services for open-source database systems
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.
In addition to the Azure SQL family, Microsoft Azure provides fully managed database services for popular open-source relational database systems. These services allow organizations to run familiar technologies like PostgreSQL and MySQL in the cloud without managing infrastructure.
For the DP-900 exam, you should understand which services are available, what they support, and when to use them.
What Are Open-Source Database Systems?
Open-source database systems are relational databases whose source code is publicly available and widely used across industries.
Common examples include:
- PostgreSQL
- MySQL
- MariaDB
These systems are known for flexibility, cost-effectiveness, and strong community support.
Azure Services for Open-Source Databases
Azure offers managed services for these databases, allowing you to run them in a Platform as a Service (PaaS) model.
1. Azure Database for PostgreSQL
Azure Database for PostgreSQL
A fully managed PostgreSQL database service.
Key Features
- Automated backups and patching
- Built-in high availability
- Scaling options for compute and storage
- Security features (encryption, network isolation)
- Support for PostgreSQL extensions
Deployment Options
- Flexible Server (most commonly used)
Use Cases
- Web and mobile applications
- Analytics workloads
- Applications already using PostgreSQL
✔ Best for: PostgreSQL-based applications moving to Azure
2. Azure Database for MySQL
Azure Database for MySQL
A fully managed MySQL database service.
Key Features
- Automated backups and patching
- High availability options
- Scaling for performance
- Built-in security features
- Compatible with popular MySQL tools
Use Cases
- Web applications (e.g., LAMP stack)
- E-commerce platforms
- Content management systems
✔ Best for: Applications built on MySQL
3. Azure Database for MariaDB (Legacy Note)
Azure Database for MariaDB
- Previously offered as a managed service
- Now being retired (important exam awareness point)
💡 DP-900 Tip:
Know that MariaDB exists, but focus primarily on PostgreSQL and MySQL.
Key Characteristics of Azure Open-Source Database Services
These services share common benefits:
Platform as a Service (PaaS)
- No infrastructure management
- Azure handles patching, backups, and updates
High Availability
- Built-in redundancy
- Automatic failover options
Scalability
- Scale compute and storage independently
Security
- Encryption at rest and in transit
- Network security (firewalls, private endpoints)
When to Use Open-Source Database Services in Azure
Choose these services when:
- You are already using PostgreSQL or MySQL
- You want to migrate existing applications with minimal changes
- You prefer open-source technologies
- You want a managed service without infrastructure overhead
Comparison with Azure SQL Family
| Feature | Azure SQL Services | Open-Source Azure Services |
|---|---|---|
| Database Engine | SQL Server | PostgreSQL / MySQL |
| Language | T-SQL | PostgreSQL SQL / MySQL SQL |
| Use Case | Microsoft ecosystem | Open-source ecosystem |
| Management | PaaS / IaaS options | Primarily PaaS |
Why This Matters for DP-900
On the exam, you may be asked to:
- Identify Azure services for PostgreSQL or MySQL
- Choose the correct service for an open-source workload
- Understand the benefits of managed database services
- Compare Azure SQL vs open-source options
Summary — Exam-Relevant Takeaways
✔ Azure supports open-source relational databases:
- Azure Database for PostgreSQL
- Azure Database for MySQL
✔ These are PaaS services:
- Azure manages infrastructure, backups, and patching
✔ Key benefits:
- High availability
- Scalability
- Security
✔ Use them when:
- Migrating existing open-source applications
- Building apps using PostgreSQL or MySQL
✔ Be aware:
- MariaDB support exists but is being phased out
Go to the Practice Exam Questions for this topic.
Go to the DP-900 Exam Prep Hub main page.
