The Stretch Database allowed users to extend their on-premises databases to the cloud seamlessly, aiming to reduce storage costs and enhance security.
Microsoft has announced the retirement of its SQL Server Stretch Database, set to take full effect on July 9, 2024. Launched in 2016, the Stretch Database allowed users to extend their on-premises databases to the cloud seamlessly, aiming to reduce storage costs and enhance security.
Key Use Cases
- Cost Reduction: Offloading infrequently accessed data to the cloud to save on on-premises storage.
- Enhanced Security: Features like Always Encrypted and row-level security provided robust data protection.
- Scalability: Allowed for flexible scaling of storage needs based on demand.
Important Dates and Migration
- Deprecation Timeline: The feature was deprecated on November 16, 2022.
- Full Retirement: Supporting Azure services will be retired by July 9, 2024.
- Migration Options: Microsoft recommends migrating data back to on-premises or exploring new archiving solutions such as CETaS (Create External Table as Select) in SQL Server 2022.
Future Directions
With SQL Server 2022, Microsoft introduces advanced data virtualization and archiving capabilities. These include integration with Microsoft Fabric and OneLake shortcuts, aimed at enhancing data storage efficiency and analytics.
For more details, refer to the official announcement.