Azure Database for PostgreSQL on Microsoft Azure
What is Azure Database for PostgreSQL?
Azure Database for PostgreSQL is a fully managed relational database service based on the open-source PostgreSQL engine. The service handles patching, backups, high availability, and scaling, allowing developers to focus on the application.
Flexible Server is the current generation with full PostgreSQL compatibility, zone-redundant high availability, and granular cost control. It supports PostgreSQL versions 11 through 16 and offers flexible compute and storage scaling independently of each other.
Azure Database for PostgreSQL integrates with Azure services like Private Link for secure network connectivity, Microsoft Entra ID for authentication, and Azure Monitor for metrics and logs.
Typical Use Cases
Web applications: PostgreSQL as backend for Django, Rails, Node.js, or .NET applications. Connection pooling via PgBouncer for high concurrency, read replicas for read load distribution.
Geospatial applications: PostGIS extension for location-based services, routing, and geodata analysis. Full PostGIS support in Flexible Server.
JSON workloads: PostgreSQL’s JSONB data type for semi-structured data. Combination of relational queries and JSON queries in one database.
Microservices: Separate database instances per service. Burstable tier for development and test, General Purpose for production.
Frequently Asked Questions about Azure Database for PostgreSQL
Which PostgreSQL versions are supported?
Azure Database for PostgreSQL Flexible Server supports PostgreSQL 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, and 16. Major version upgrades can be performed in-place. Extensions like PostGIS, pg_partman, pg_cron, and many others are available.
What is the difference between Single Server and Flexible Server?
Single Server is deprecated and will be retired in 2025. Flexible Server is the current, recommended option with zone-redundant HA, improved performance, flexible scaling, and lower costs. Migrate existing Single Servers to Flexible Server.
How does high availability work?
Zone-redundant HA creates a standby server in another Availability Zone. On failure, automatic failover occurs in under 120 seconds. Same-zone HA is more cost-effective but less resilient. HA doubles compute costs.
Can I use PostgreSQL extensions?
Yes, Flexible Server supports many extensions: PostGIS for geodata, pg_partman for partitioning, pgvector for vector search, pg_cron for scheduling, pg_stat_statements for query analysis, and many more. Extensions are enabled via CREATE EXTENSION.
What does Azure Database for PostgreSQL cost?
Pricing is based on compute tier (Burstable, General Purpose, Memory Optimized), vCores, and storage. Burstable B1ms starts at approximately 12 EUR/month. Production workloads with 4 vCores cost approximately 200-400 EUR/month plus storage. Reserved Instances offer up to 65% discount.
How do I migrate from on-premises?
Azure Database Migration Service (DMS) enables online migration with minimal downtime. For simple migrations, pg_dump/pg_restore or logical replication can be used. Azure provides migration guides for various source systems.
Integration with innFactory
As a Microsoft Solutions Partner, innFactory supports you in migrating to and optimizing Azure Database for PostgreSQL. We help with architecture, performance tuning, and high availability configuration.
Contact us for a non-binding consultation on Azure Database for PostgreSQL.
