Azure SQL Managed Instance: The Cloud-Ready SQL Server Replacement

When migrating to the cloud, some workloads demand more than just a database—they require the rich functionality and compatibility of a traditional SQL Server. That’s where Azure SQL Managed Instance comes in. Designed to deliver the full capabilities of SQL Server as a Platform as a Service (PaaS) offering, Managed Instance combines cloud scalability with familiar SQL Server features.

For organizations looking to modernize their databases without sacrificing feature compatibility or performance, Azure SQL Managed Instance is the perfect bridge.

What is Azure SQL Managed Instance?

Azure SQL Managed Instance (MI) is a fully managed database service that provides near 100% compatibility with SQL Server on-premises. Unlike Azure SQL Database, which is tailored for modern, single-database apps, Managed Instance is optimized for scenarios where you need:
• Full SQL Server functionality, including cross-database queries and SQL Server Agent.
• Minimal changes to your existing applications.
• A lift-and-shift migration path to the cloud.

Key Features:

• Native SQL Server Compatibility: Supports features like CLR, linked servers, and Service Broker.

• Always-On High Availability: Built-in redundancy ensures data resilience without the need for manual configuration.

• Private Network Integration: Offers support for virtual networks (VNets) for enhanced security and connectivity.

• Scalability and Flexibility: Scale compute and storage independently to match workload demands.

Why Choose Azure SQL Managed Instance?

Managed Instance is the go-to choice for businesses migrating complex, multi-database workloads to the cloud. Here’s why:

1. Minimal Application Changes:
   With near-full compatibility with on-prem SQL Server, you can lift-and-shift applications with little to no code refactoring.

2. All-in-One PaaS Solution:
   Combines the operational ease of a fully managed service with the functionality of SQL Server, including SQL Server Agent and advanced querying capabilities.

3. Enhanced Security:
   Managed Instance integrates with Azure Virtual Networks (VNets) for isolated, secure environments.

4. Built for Enterprises:
   Supports large databases (up to 16 TB) and advanced features like transactional replication and distributed queries.

Deployment Options

Azure SQL Managed Instance offers two service tiers, tailored to different needs:

1.General Purpose:

• Ideal for most business applications.

• Uses Azure’s remote storage for cost efficiency.

2. Business Critical:

• Designed for low-latency applications that require high performance.

• Uses local SSD storage and provides multiple replicas for redundancy.

How to Get Started with Managed Instance

Step 1: Assess Your Workloads

• Use the Database Migration Assistant (DMA) to identify compatibility issues and determine which databases are ready for Managed Instance.

Step 2: Create a Managed Instance

• Log in to the Azure Portal

• Using the search bar on the home page, search for "SQL managed instances" and click on it.

• Fill out the required fields on the Basics tab. Note that the Managed Instance name must be globally unique in Azure

• While still on the Basics tab, look for and click on Configure Managed Instance (under the Compute + Storage setting). This opens a window where you can choose the tier (General Purpose or Business Critical).

• Continue configuring the networking settings and other required options.

Step 3: Set Up Network Connectivity

• Managed Instance requires a virtual network (VNet) for private connectivity. Configure VNet peering or ExpressRoute for seamless integration with on-prem systems. Complete other settings as needed

Step 4: Migrate Your Data

• Use Azure SQL Migration Extension for Azure Data Studio or Azure Database Migration Service (DMS) for a seamless lift-and-shift migration.

• Alternatively, use Log Shipping or Transactional Replication for hybrid scenarios.

Step 5: Validate and Optimize

• Test your applications post-migration to ensure everything functions as expected.

• Use Azure Monitor to track performance and resource utilization.

Use Cases for Managed Instance

1. Enterprise Applications:
   Run large-scale ERP or CRM systems requiring SQL Server Agent and cross-database queries.

2. Legacy Applications:
   Move older applications to the cloud without rewriting code or re-architecting the database.

3. Hybrid Environments:
   Maintain on-prem connectivity for compliance or operational requirements while hosting databases in the cloud.

Real-World Example: Migrating a Core Banking Platform to the Cloud with Managed Instance

Imagine a mid-sized bank that needs to migrate its core banking platform from on-premises to the cloud to reduce costs and improve disaster recovery. Here’s how Managed Instance helps:

• Compatibility: Its SQL Server features, such as SQL Agent jobs and linked servers, work out of the box.

• Security: By using VNets, it ensures that all communications remain within a private network.

• Performance: The Business Critical tier provides the high availability and low latency required for transaction processing.

Result: The bank successfully completes the migration with minimal downtime and gains a scalable, secure platform for future growth.

Best Practices for Azure SQL Managed Instance

1. Plan Your Network:
   Properly configure VNets and subnets before provisioning Managed Instance to avoid connectivity issues.

2. Use Hybrid Benefits:
   If you have existing SQL Server licenses, take advantage of Azure Hybrid Benefit to reduce costs.

3. Monitor Performance:
   Use tools like Azure Monitor and Query Performance Insights to optimize resources post-migration.

Conclusion

Azure SQL Managed Instance delivers the perfect balance of compatibility, scalability, and operational simplicity. For businesses looking to modernize their databases while retaining the full power of SQL Server, Managed Instance provides a seamless path to the cloud.
Ready to transform your infrastructure? Start exploring Azure SQL Managed Instance and see how it can bring your database workloads into the future.