Azure SQL Database Tools - Microsoft Docs

Azure Data Studio

A modern, cross-platform database tool that runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux, with built-in charting of query results and customizable workspace.

Connect to Azure SQL Database, SQL Server, PostgreSQL, and more.
Write T-SQL, Python, and PowerShell scripts.
Integrated source control (Git).
Rich extension ecosystem for added functionality.

Key Features: IntelliSense, snippet support, integrated terminal, notebooks.

                -- Example: Connecting to Azure SQL Database with Azure Data Studio
                -- (Connection details are configured via the UI)
                SELECT @@VERSION;
                

SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS)

The premier, feature-rich management tool for SQL Server and Azure SQL Database on Windows. Provides a robust environment for database administration and development.

Comprehensive database administration capabilities.
Advanced query processing and debugging.
Performance tuning and monitoring tools.
Graphical user interface for managing objects.

Key Features: Query Editor, Object Explorer, Activity Monitor, Report Builder integration.

                -- Example: Querying metadata in SSMS
                SELECT name, compatibility_level
                FROM sys.databases
                WHERE name = 'your_database_name';
                

Azure Portal

The web-based management console for all Azure services, including Azure SQL Database. Provides a centralized interface for monitoring, configuration, and basic management tasks.

Database provisioning and configuration.
Performance monitoring and metrics.
Security settings and firewall rules.
Integration with other Azure services like Azure Monitor.

Key Features: Resource overview, performance insights, query performance insight, advisor recommendations.

Access the Azure Portal at portal.azure.com.

Azure CLI / PowerShell

Automate and manage your Azure SQL Database resources programmatically. Ideal for scripting, deployments, and continuous integration/continuous deployment (CI/CD) pipelines.

Create, configure, and manage SQL databases and servers.
Automate backups and restores.
Apply security policies and firewall rules.
Integrate with Azure DevOps and GitHub Actions.

Key Features: Scriptable operations, repeatable deployments, cross-platform availability.

                # Example: Creating an Azure SQL Database server with Azure CLI
                az sql server create \
                    --name myazuresqlserver \
                    --resource-group myresourcegroup \
                    --location eastus \
                    --admin-user myadmin \
                    --admin-password 
                

                # Example: Creating a database with Azure CLI
                az sql db create \
                    --resource-group myresourcegroup \
                    --server myazuresqlserver \
                    --name mydatabase \
                    --edition Basic
                

Visual Studio

A powerful Integrated Development Environment (IDE) for building applications that utilize Azure SQL Database. Offers robust data tools for development and debugging.

Database project integration for schema management.
Data-tier application deployment.
Debugging stored procedures and functions.
Integration with Azure SDKs.

Key Features: SQL Server Data Tools (SSDT), IntelliTrace, Live Unit Testing.

DBeaver

A universal database tool for developers and database administrators. Supports a wide range of databases including Azure SQL Database.

Cross-platform availability.
Supports numerous database drivers.
SQL editor with auto-completion and syntax highlighting.
Data and metadata browsing.