What distinguishes Azure SQL Database from SQL Server on Azure VM?

The distinction between Azure SQL Database and SQL Server on Azure Virtual Machines primarily revolves around their respective service models. Azure SQL Database is categorized as a Platform as a Service (PaaS), while SQL Server on Azure VM falls under Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS).

In a PaaS environment like Azure SQL Database, Microsoft manages the underlying infrastructure, including hardware, updates, and scaling, allowing you to focus on database performance and application development rather than infrastructure management. This model involves automatic patching, backups, and high availability features that simplify management tasks.

On the other hand, SQL Server on Azure Virtual Machines provides more control and flexibility, as you are responsible for managing the entire stack, including the operating system and SQL Server instance. This model is beneficial for applications that require full SQL Server capabilities, custom configurations, or legacy applications that are tightly coupled with the environment.

Understanding this key difference helps in making informed choices about which service to use based on specific needs and management preferences.