Introduction
Change Data Capture or CDC is a crucial aspect in eluding data latency in diverse operational environments. CDC aids in seamless data tracking, capturing changes in data at source, and applying the modifications to the targeted data repository. Microsoft Azure SQL Managed Instances, supporting built-in CDC, offers simplified solutions for efficient data management across businesses. This blog takes you through the comprehensive understanding and implementation of CDC in Azure SQL Managed Instances.
Understanding Microsoft Azure SQL Managed Instances and CDC
CDC, an integral functionality in SQL Server, records the Insert, Update, and Delete activity in SQL Server tables. Azure SQL Managed Instances aim to provide broad SQL Server engine compatibility and native virtual network (VNET) support, making them a perfect platform for enterprise SQL workloads. Primarily, it simplifies Lift and Shift migrations while allowing one to modernize applications at a relaxed pace.
Handling Captured Data
The CDC operates by capturing changes in the SQL Server log (subject to SQL instance configuration) related to enabled tables. It records these changes in particular change tables that mirror the column structure of the source tables. Furthermore, these change tables keep the history of the data changes alongside vital information.
Prerequisites for setting up CDC
Setting up CDC in Azure SQL Managed instances requires due diligence, concerning the permissions and SQL Agent jobs. To begin with, users need to have the right set of permissions to perform the CDC-related tasks. Having a sysadmin fixed server role in SQL Server or a db_owner fixed database role in a database is crucial to enable, configure, and perform CDC tasks.
SQL agent jobs and CDC
Azure SQL Managed Instances automate the CDC process with the help of SQL Agent jobs. For every source table, there’s a capture and a cleanup job. The capture job appropriates the asynchronous capturing of the DML changes, while the cleanup job eliminates old entries from the change tables. On Managed Instances, these jobs are automatically created and run to facilitate CDC.
Step-by-Step Initiation of CDC in SQL Managed Instances
To establish CDC, enable it on the database, then turn it on for the tables you wish to track, and finally launch the CDC capture process. The key is to carry out these steps by executing various SQL Server stored procedures.
Conclusion
In essence, CDC is paramount to maintaining an updated database in Azure SQL Managed Instances. It enhances the efficacy of data processing tasks by minimizing latency and facilitating real-time data availability. With necessary permissions and the aid of SQL Agent jobs, businesses can explore a seamless operational environment. Be sure to refer to the original document for a deepened understanding and reach out for technical support whenever necessary.
Resources
For a comprehensive know-how and latest updates about Azure cloud products and CDC, refer to the original document and the Microsoft Azure SQL Documentation.
“Implementing CDC in Azure SQL Managed Instances with Failover Groups, Ensuring Seamless Operations with CDC in Azure SQL Managed Instances, CDC Configuration for Azure SQL Managed Instances with Failover, Best Practices for Setting Up CDC in Azure SQL Managed Instances and Failover Groups”
