Azure SQL Virtual Machines – Frequently Asked Questions

What is Azure SQL Virtual Machine?

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Azure SQL Virtual Machine (SQL VM) lets you run a fully managed instance of Microsoft SQL Server on a virtual machine in Azure. It provides full control over the OS, SQL Server version, and configuration while integrating with Azure services like backup, monitoring, and security.

When should I choose SQL VM over Azure SQL Database?

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Choose SQL VM when you need full control over the operating system, need support for features not available in Azure SQL Database (e.g., cross-database queries, SQL Server Agent, custom CLR, or specific licensing models), or when you have an existing on‑premises workload you want to lift‑and‑shift with minimal changes.

What licensing options are available?

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You can use:

  • Pay‑as‑you‑go (license included) – the cost of the SQL Server license is bundled with the VM price.
  • Azure Hybrid Benefit – use your existing on‑premises Windows Server and SQL Server licenses with Software Assurance for discounted rates.

How is backup and restore handled?

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SQL VM integrates with Azure Backup for automated, point‑in‑time backups. You can also use native SQL Server backup to Azure Blob Storage, or configure automated backups using the Azure portal.

Can I use Azure Security Center with SQL VM?

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Yes. Azure Security Center provides threat detection, vulnerability assessments, and security recommendations specifically for SQL Server running on VMs.

What high‑availability options are supported?

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SQL VM supports:

  • Always On Availability Groups
  • Failover Cluster Instances (FCI) using Windows Server Failover Clustering
  • Database Mirroring (deprecated but still supported)

How do I monitor performance?

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Use Azure Monitor, Log Analytics, and the built‑in Performance Dashboard in the Azure portal. You can also install the SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS) or Azure Data Studio for detailed metrics.

Is there a limit to the size of the databases I can host?

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Database size is limited by the storage type and capacity you attach to the VM. Premium SSDs can scale up to 64 TB per disk, and you can attach multiple disks.

How do I migrate an existing on‑premises SQL Server to a SQL VM?

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Use Azure Database Migration Service, backup/restore to Azure Blob Storage, or copy the database files directly to the VM. Detailed steps are available in the Azure migration documentation.

What operating systems are supported?

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SQL VM supports Windows Server 2016, 2019, and 2022. Linux‑based SQL Server is also available on Azure VMs but is covered under separate documentation.