USE CASES
Azure SQL Managed Instance is engineered to handle a multitude of scenarios, shining in envi-ronments where specific SQL Server capabilities and considerations are paramount. Here are some of its more prominent use-cases scenarios:
■■ Complex workloads: Tailor-made for intricate SQL Server workloads, it embraces the full spectrum of SQL features, including SQL Agent, cross-database queries, and Com-mon Language Runtime integration, to handle the most demanding tasks.
■■ Compliance and security: It is the go-to option when your applications are bound by stringent regulatory standards, offering a suite of advanced security measures and com-pliance controls.
■■ Hybrid deployments: For those navigating the hybrid landscape, Azure SQL Managed Instance ensures a smooth, secure connection between cloud-based resources and on-premises systems.
EXAMPLE SCENARIO
Consider a scenario where you are managing a SQL Server environment for a healthcare application that contains sensitive patient data. The application uses complex SQL Server functionalities, including SQL Agent jobs for scheduling tasks and the CLR for database-level computations. Compliance with health regulatory standards such as Health Insurance Portabil-ity and Accountability Act (HIPAA) is also a critical requirement.
To transition to Azure SQL Managed Instance, follow these steps:
- Assess the compatibility of your SQL Server workloads using the Data Migration Assistant.
- Plan the migration to Azure SQL Managed Instance considering the compute, storage, and performance needs.
- Utilize the Azure Database Migration Service to migrate your on-premises SQL Server databases to Azure SQL Managed Instance with minimal downtime.
- Configure a virtual network and ensure that network security groups are set up to allow traffic to and from your managed instance.
By choosing Azure SQL Managed Instance for this healthcare application, you ensure a seamless migration of your complex SQL workloads to a fully managed database service that complies with industry standards, thus maintaining the integrity and confidentiality of sensitive data.
Azure SQL Managed Instance is tailored for those who need the rich feature set of SQL Server coupled with the benefits of a managed, scalable, and secure cloud environment. It represents a strategic choice for businesses looking to modernize their database infrastructure while maintaining operational consistency.