Microsoft has been focusing on affordability, security, and Azure integration for hybrid data storage solutions since the introduction of SQL Server Stretch Database in 2016. Customer feedback has highlighted the need for reduced maintenance and storage costs, advanced security features, and the ability to extract value from data stored in Azure. As Azure has evolved with innovations like Microsoft Fabric and Azure Data Lake Storage, the approach to hybrid data storage also needs to evolve to benefit SQL Server customers.
It was announced that the SQL Server Stretch Database feature will be retired on July 9, 2024, impacting versions of SQL Server starting from 2016 to 2022. Customers are advised to migrate their data to Azure or back to on-premises SQL Server. SQL Server 2022 introduces CREATE EXTERNAL TABLE HOW TO SELECT (CETaS) to help archive inactive data in Azure storage. This supports complex data in large volumes with efficient compression, and Microsoft Fabric enables cloud-scale analytics on archived data through OneLake shortcuts.
Microsoft is committed to providing SQL Server customers with tools that leverage Azure’s capabilities. Customers with questions about the new solutions like CETaS and Fabric can find answers in the FAQs provided. Fabric is an end-to-end data and analytics platform designed for enterprises, offering a unified solution for data processing, transformation, real-time event routing, and reporting. OneLake shortcuts unify data across domains and clouds, reducing the need for multiple services.
Overall, the retirement of SQL Server Stretch Database in 2024 calls for a shift towards new archiving solutions provided by SQL Server 2022. The focus is on Azure integration, enabling customers to make the most of their data storage options while ensuring security and cost-effectiveness. By adopting the latest capabilities and enhancements offered by Azure, SQL Server users can streamline their data archiving processes and unlock the full potential of their data assets.
Article Source
https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/sql-server/blog/2024/07/03/announcing-the-retirement-of-sql-server-stretch-database/