My current position involves a lot of work with SQL Server Managed Instances so you’ll probably be hearing a lot about them from me. At least for a while. Prior to this 95%+ of my experience has been on-premises and I’d always figured that SQL Server is SQL Server. It turns out there’s a lot more that’s different than I expected. I mean a lot of it’s the same. If you are an on-premises DBA, you’ll be able to manage a MI (managed instance) pretty easily and pick up on the major differences quickly enough. For example, did you know that xp_cmdshell isn’t available on an MI? I mean it’s for obvious reasons, but if you are used to it it can still be a bit of a blow.
The other day while doing a bit of research for a blog post I came across this little gem: T-SQL differences between SQL Server & Azure SQL Managed Instance. Just skimming it (all I’ve had time for so far) it’s got a lot of great information and even more links back to additional information.
Now because I’m not always the brightest bulb in the pack I lost the link. But! While I was looking for it I found this page: Features comparison: Azure SQL Database and Azure SQL Managed Instance which is very similar but at a higher level and linked back to the previous link and a bunch more.
It’s always nice when you know something pretty well to be able to get a list of just the differences/new stuff to learn. And, yes, I know SQL Homework was a couple of days ago but these links were just too good not to share.