Azure SQL Database Documentation
Welcome to the comprehensive documentation for Azure SQL Database. This page serves as a central hub for understanding, managing, and optimizing your cloud-based relational database solutions.
What is Azure SQL Database?
Azure SQL Database is a fully managed Platform as a Service (PaaS) database engine that handles most database management functions such as upgrading, patching, backups, and read replicas without user involvement. Azure SQL Database supports relational data, semi-structured data (JSON), and XML. It is built on the SQL Server engine and offers compatibility with the latest stable version of SQL Server.
Key Features
Discover the core capabilities of Azure SQL Database, including its intelligent protection, automated patching, and seamless scaling.
Learn More →Deployment Options
Explore various deployment models like single databases, elastic pools, and managed instances to suit your application needs.
Explore Options →Performance Best Practices
Gain insights into optimizing query performance, indexing strategies, and resource utilization for maximum efficiency.
Optimize Performance →Security and Compliance
Understand how Azure SQL Database secures your data with advanced threat protection, encryption, and compliance certifications.
Secure Your Data →Getting Started with Azure SQL Database
Begin your journey with Azure SQL Database by following our step-by-step guides and tutorials.
Start Now →Common Tasks
- Create a new Azure SQL Database
- Connect to your database
- Migrate an existing SQL Server database
- Monitor database performance
Dive Deeper
Explore advanced topics, case studies, and architectural patterns for building robust applications on Azure SQL Database.
Azure SQL Database Architecture
Understand the underlying architecture that makes Azure SQL Database a powerful and reliable service.
View Architecture →High Availability and Disaster Recovery
Learn about the built-in HA/DR capabilities and how to configure them for business continuity.
Configure HA/DR →