Download SSMS Tool: All Versions, Official Links & Build History

Download the SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS) tool onto your machine and connect to SQL Server, whether it’s on-premises or in the cloud. Use SSMS to connect to: All executable (.exe) files are hosted on Microsoft’s official website and not on my own site. This page offers two options for downloading SSMS. Download the SSMS … Read more

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

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

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

Different database restore methods in Azure SQL MI

In the world of cloud-native databases, “Backup” is only half the story. The true value lies in Restoring the database as to recover data quickly, accurately, and with minimal downtime. As SQL MI is a PaaS service offered by Microsoft, the SQL MI user database backups are automatically handled by Azure. Choosing the right backup … Read more

Step-by-Step Guide: Creating an Azure SQL Managed Instance (Pay-As-You-Go & Free Offer)

Azure SQL Managed Instance (SQL MI) is the ideal “bridge” for organizations looking to move their on-premises SQL Server workloads to the cloud with minimal code changes. Combining the best of SQL Server with the benefits of a fully managed Platform-as-a-Service (PaaS), it offers high compatibility and automated management. In this guide, we will walk … Read more

How to Create an Azure Database for MySQL Flexible Server in Azure Portal

Creating an Azure Database for MySQL Flexible Server is a straightforward process that offers more granular control and flexibility for your database management. This guide walks you through the steps to set up your server in the Azure portal. Step 1: Search for MySQL Flexible Servers Sign into your Azure portal and search for “Azure … Read more