How does Azure SQL Database handle high availability?

Azure SQL Database ensures high availability primarily through its built-in redundant architectures, which are integral to its design. This approach leverages multiple layers of redundancy and fault tolerance that are automatically implemented, reducing the likelihood of downtime. The architecture includes features such as automatic backups, geo-replication, and failover groups, which can quickly redirect traffic to a healthy server in case of failure.

This redundancy is crucial for maintaining high availability in cloud environments where hardware failures or unexpected issues can occur. Additionally, Azure SQL Database continuously monitors its resources and can handle outages or maintenance events with minimal impact on performance and accessibility.

In contrast, other options do not align with Azure SQL Database's method for achieving high availability. For instance, basic disk mirroring does not provide the robust architecture required in cloud solutions. Manually configuring failover clusters is more relevant for on-premises SQL Server solutions rather than Azure's abstracted service model. Daily system updates, while important for security and performance, do not directly address the high availability needs of databases.