Azure Database for MySQL: Overview

Azure Database for MySQL is a fully managed relational database service built on the open-source MySQL Community Edition database engine. It enables you to focus on application development and innovation rather than on database management operations.

What is Azure Database for MySQL?

Azure Database for MySQL offers:

• Managed Service: Azure handles patching, updates, backups, and high availability, freeing you from operational burdens.
• Flexible Deployment Options: Choose between single server, flexible server, andhyperscale (Citus) deployments to match your performance and cost requirements.
• High Performance: Optimized for high throughput and low latency, with various pricing tiers to suit different needs.
• Enterprise-Grade Security: Features like SSL/TLS encryption, network isolation, and Azure Active Directory authentication protect your data.
• Compatibility: Supports the MySQL Community Edition engine, ensuring seamless migration for existing MySQL applications.

Deployment Options

Azure Database for MySQL provides different deployment architectures:

1. Single Server (Current Generation)

This is the original deployment option, suitable for new cloud-native applications or simple workloads. It offers a single MySQL server instance. While still supported, Azure recommends Flexible Server for most new workloads.

2. Flexible Server (Recommended)

Flexible Server is designed for greater control over database management and more demanding workloads. Key features include:

• Zone-redundant HA: Provides high availability across multiple availability zones.
• Cost optimization: Flexible compute and storage options allow for better cost management.
• Maintenance window control: Schedule maintenance activities at your convenience.
• Faster server startup: Improved performance for server provisioning and restarts.

3. Hyperscale (Citus)

This option extends MySQL to support massive scale by sharding your data across multiple PostgreSQL nodes. It's ideal for large analytical workloads and real-time operational analytics.

Key Features

Scalability

Easily scale your compute and storage resources up or down with minimal downtime to meet evolving application demands. Choose from various pricing tiers like General Purpose and Memory Optimized.

High Availability

Leverage built-in high availability features, including zone-redundant configurations in Flexible Server, to ensure your database is always available, even during infrastructure failures.

Security

Protect your data with robust security measures:

• SSL/TLS Encryption: Secure connections between your application and the database.
• Network Security: Control access using firewall rules and private endpoints.
• Authentication: Support for Azure Active Directory and MySQL native authentication.
• Data Encryption: Transparent data encryption (TDE) for data at rest.

Automated Management

Azure handles routine database tasks, including:

• Automated Backups: Regular backups stored in geo-redundant storage.
• Point-in-Time Restore: Restore your database to any point within the retention period.
• Patching and Updates: Automatic application of security patches and engine updates.

Getting Started

To begin using Azure Database for MySQL:

1. Create a Server: Provision a new MySQL server instance using the Azure portal, Azure CLI, or PowerShell.
2. Configure: Set up firewall rules, configure server parameters, and establish network connectivity.
3. Connect: Use your favorite MySQL client or application to connect to your managed server.
4. Develop: Deploy your applications and leverage the power of a managed MySQL database.

Explore the following tutorials to learn more about creating, configuring, and connecting to your Azure Database for MySQL instance.

Next: Quickstart - Create an Azure Database for MySQL server using Azure CLI