AZ-305 Question 60
Single answerA technology startup is launching a new e-commerce platform with variable traffic patterns. They want a fully managed relational database that supports transparent data encryption (TDE), offers built-in high availability without additional overhead, and can efficiently handle sudden increases in workload. Which solution best meets their needs?
- A
Azure SQL Database
- B
Azure SQL Managed Instance
- C
Azure Database for PostgreSQL
- D
SQL Server on an Azure Virtual Machine
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: A
Explanation
Azure SQL Database is typically recommended for workloads requiring fully managed services, built-in high availability, elastic scaling, and advanced security features like Transparent Data Encryption without the need for advanced instance-level configurations. For more details, consult the official Azure documentation on best practices for Azure SQL Database configuration and deployment.
- A. Correct.
Azure SQL Database is a fully managed PaaS offering that provides automatic scaling, built-in high availability, and advanced security features like Transparent Data Encryption. It removes much of the administrative overhead, making it ideal for variable workloads.
- B. Incorrect.
Azure SQL Managed Instance is also a fully managed service, but it’s often chosen when you need a near 100% compatibility with on-premises SQL Server features (e.g., SQL Agent, cross-database queries). It may be more than what’s required if the application primarily needs a straightforward relational database solution without full instance-level features.
- C. Incorrect.
Azure Database for PostgreSQL is designed for customers needing a fully managed PostgreSQL environment, not T-SQL or SQL Server compatibility. While it's also fully managed, it does not support T-SQL and is not optimal if the team wants to use SQL Server features and tooling.
- D. Incorrect.
SQL Server on an Azure Virtual Machine gives full control over the server and operating system, but it also requires more administration for patching, backups, and high availability configurations. It is not as hands-off as a fully managed PaaS solution.