Fix Azure SQL MI to SQL DB Linked Server Errors Using Entra ID

Welcome back to another deep dive on Cloud Nerchuko. If you have ever tried setting up a Linked Server from an Azure SQL Managed Instance (MI) to an Azure SQL Database using a System-Assigned Managed Identity, you know that Azure networking can sometimes feel like navigating a maze of invisible walls. Recently, I went through … Read more

How to Create Linked Servers in SQL MI Using Entra ID

When migrating to Azure SQL Managed Instance (SQL MI), Linked Servers often become a critical requirement for maintaining cross-environment connectivity. They act as a vital bridge, allowing you to execute queries or call stored procedures across diverse environments whether that is an on-premises database, Azure SQL DB, SQL Server on an Azure VM, or another … Read more

Azure SQL Managed Instance RTO and RPO details

In the modern digital landscape, applications rely on databases to remain functional at all times. However, unforeseen events such as hardware failures, regional power outages, or accidental human errors can disrupt normal operations. To protect data and ensure business continuity, Microsoft Azure SQL Managed Instance offers a robust set of recovery tools. Here are the … Read more

Scaling Downtime in SQL Managed Instance

In this post, I am going to share my hands-on experience measuring the actual downtime you can expect when scaling an Azure SQL Managed Instance (SQL MI) up or down. Specifically, I will be walking you through a real-world test of scaling storage size and vCores using a free-tier SQL Managed Instance. I will append … Read more

7 Proven Strategies to Reduce SQL Managed Instance Costs

If you have migrated your databases to the cloud, you already know the incredible benefits of Azure SQL Managed Instance (SQL MI). It offers near 100% compatibility with the latest SQL Server engine, automated patching, and robust security. Now, here comes the biggest risk and it is the final bill on your invoice for consuming … Read more

How to create a SQL MI Linked Server using TSQL Scripts

Linked servers enable Azure SQL Managed Instance (SQL MI) to seamlessly execute distributed queries and commands against remote database servers, such as other SQL MIs, Azure SQL Databases, or on-premises SQL Server instances. I’m discussing the creation of a linked server from one SQL Server to another. This blog post doesn’t cover creating a linked … Read more

How to Create and Schedule a SQL Agent Job in Azure SQL MI

If you are running tasks manually on your databases, it’s time to automate. SQL Agent Jobs allow us to schedule T-SQL statements against the databases in Azure SQL MI so they run on their own. Today, I’m not going to waste time talking about the theory behind it. I’m just going to show you the … Read more

Azure SQL DB vs Azure SQL Managed Instance (With Diagrams)

If you’re planning a database migration or architecting a new cloud-native solution, you’ve likely hit this exact crossroads: should you choose Azure SQL DB or Azure SQL Managed Instance? Both are fully managed PaaS offerings, but they serve very different use cases. Making the wrong choice early on can lead to architectural roadblocks, complex refactoring, … Read more

How to connect to Azure SQL MI with SSMS using Entra ID

In this guide, we will walk through how to seamlessly integrate Microsoft Entra ID (formerly Azure Active Directory) with your SQL Managed Instance using the SSMS tool. Just follow the below steps to connect to SQL MI server. Step 1: Copy the SQL MI Hostname from Azure Portal Log in to the Azure Portal and … Read more

Microsoft Entra Admin Setup for Azure SQL MI in Portal

Configuring Microsoft Entra Admin for Azure SQL Managed Instance (MI) ensures secure identity management and streamlined access control. In this guide, we’ll walk through the steps to set up Entra Admin directly from the Azure Portal, making it easier to manage authentication and permissions for your SQL MI environment. Steps to Configure Microsoft Entra Admin … Read more