Understanding other SQL options in Azure
In Chapter 2, Connecting Requirements and Technology, we talked about different size options for your modern data warehouse. When we look at the M size, we have added an Azure SQL database for the presentation layer. When we compare the Azure SQL database to Synapse Analytics databases, the main difference is the SMP character of the Azure SQL database. See also Figure 4.1 for a comparison of SMP versus MPP.
In a SQL database, data is, by default, stored in a row orientation as it is done in SQL Server. In general, you can think of the Azure SQL database as a single database that you would spin up and use. Almost all of the functionality of a SQL Server database is available with an Azure SQL database as well.
You will also have the option to create CCIs on your tables. This will give you high analytical performance on your data stored there. In comparison to Synapse Analytics, you won't get the same scale-out architecture with...
