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PostgreSQL Hosting Options

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Azure Database for PostgreSQL vs. Azure Cosmos DB for PostgreSQL

Microsoft Azure offers two distinct managed PostgreSQL services: Azure Database for PostgreSQL and Azure Cosmos DB for PostgreSQL. Each service is designed for specific use cases and architectures. Here’s a detailed comparison:

FeatureAzure Database for PostgreSQLAzure Cosmos DB for PostgreSQL
ArchitectureRelational database service based on the PostgreSQL community edition.Distributed relational database powered by the Citus extension for PostgreSQL.
ScalabilityVertical scaling and manual horizontal scaling with sharding or replication.Automatic sharding and scaling across multiple nodes, enabling seamless scalability.
Use CaseIdeal for migrating or modernizing existing PostgreSQL or Oracle workloads.Best suited for building new cloud-native, multi-tenant SaaS apps, or high-throughput applications.
Global DistributionSupports high availability within single or multiple availability zones.Offers geo-replication and global distribution for low-latency access worldwide.
Data ModelRelational model with predefined schemas and ACID compliance.Relational model extended with distributed tables, supporting scalable workloads.
Compute TiersProvides Burstable, General Purpose, and Memory Optimized tiers for cost optimization.Automatically scales compute resources as needed across nodes in the cluster.
PostgreSQL Version SupportCommunity versions (11-17) with regular updates.Latest PostgreSQL features supported via Citus extension within weeks of release.
Workload OptimizationOptimized for traditional relational workloads and cost-sensitive applications.Optimized for operational real-time analytics, SaaS apps, and high-throughput transactional apps.
Management FeaturesGranular control over database configurations, maintenance windows, and monitoring tools.Fully managed service with automated high availability, backups, and monitoring capabilities.

Summary

  • Azure Database for PostgreSQL is ideal for applications requiring traditional relational database features, migration of existing workloads, or cost-sensitive deployments.
  • Azure Cosmos DB for PostgreSQL is designed for modern distributed applications needing global scalability, high throughput, and multi-tenant architecture.

Choose between these services based on your application’s scalability requirements and workload characteristics[1][2][3][5][10].

Sources
[1] Azure Cosmos vs PostgreSQL differences! - LinkedIn
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/azure-cosmos-vs-postgresql-differences-arun-sengottaiyan-he2gc
[2] Service overview - Azure Database for PostgreSQL flexible server
https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/azure/postgresql/flexible-server/service-overview
[3] Reference – Azure Cosmos DB for PostgreSQL | Microsoft Learn
https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/azure/cosmos-db/postgresql/reference-overview
[4] Azure Cosmos DB vs PostgreSQL | What are the differences?
https://stackshare.io/stackups/azure-cosmos-db-vs-postgresql
[5] PostgreSQL on Azure – How to choose what’s best for your app
https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/adforpostgresql/postgresql-on-azure-–-how-to-choose-what’s-best-for-your-app/3784537
[6] Azure Database for PostgreSQL flexible server - Learn Microsoft
https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/azure/postgresql/flexible-server/overview
[7] Azure Cosmos DB for PostgreSQL | How it Works - YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pggo9cYHx2g
[8] Azure Cosmos DB vs PostgreSQL : Compare Differences - Whizlabs
https://www.whizlabs.com/blog/azure-cosmos-db-vs-postgresql/
[9] A Simplified Introduction to Azure Database for PostgreSQL Flexible …
https://thwack.solarwinds.com/groups/data-driven/b/blog/posts/a-simplified-introduction-to-azure-database-for-postgresql-flexible-server
[10] Einführung/Übersicht - Azure Cosmos DB for PostgreSQL
https://learn.microsoft.com/de-de/azure/cosmos-db/postgresql/introduction

Azure Database for PostgreSQL vs. Azure Database for PostgreSQL Flexible Server

Azure Database for PostgreSQL and Azure Database for PostgreSQL Flexible Server are two distinct managed database services on Microsoft Azure. These services differ significantly in their architecture, features, and use cases. Here’s a detailed comparison:

FeatureAzure Database for PostgreSQL (Single Server)Azure Database for PostgreSQL Flexible Server
ArchitectureSingle-server deployment model with limited customization options.Flexible server deployment model offering granular control over configuration and management.
High AvailabilityBuilt-in replication limited to single availability zones.Supports zone-redundant high availability across multiple availability zones for better resiliency.
Performance OptimizationLimited performance tuning options.Built-in performance monitoring, alerting, and the ability to co-locate database and application for lower latency[2][4].
Cost OptimizationNo option to stop/start the server; continuous costs.Offers cost-saving features like stopping/starting servers and burstable compute tiers[3][6].
Maintenance SchedulingAutomated updates with limited control over maintenance windows.Allows custom maintenance windows for predictable patching schedules[2][3].
Supported VersionsCommunity versions of PostgreSQL (11-15).Supports PostgreSQL versions 11-16 with plans for newer versions as they become available[3][6].
ScalabilityVertical scaling only; requires manual intervention for horizontal scaling.Horizontal scaling supported with flexible compute options and separation of compute/storage[2][3].
Use CaseSuitable for simpler workloads with minimal customization needs.Ideal for applications needing better control, high availability, and cost optimization[2][3].

Summary

  • Single Server Model: Best suited for basic workloads with minimal customization needs.
  • Flexible Server Model: Designed for complex workloads requiring high availability, lower latency, cost efficiency, and greater control over database configurations.

Flexible Server offers more advanced features and flexibility than the Single Server model, making it the preferred choice for modern applications that need scalability and resilience.

Sources
[1] Azure Database for PostgreSQL Flexible Server Review in 2023
https://www.techrepublic.com/article/azure-database-postgresql-flexible-server/
[2] Azure Database for PostgreSQL flexible server - Learn Microsoft
https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/azure/postgresql/flexible-server/overview
[3] Service overview - Azure Database for PostgreSQL - Flexible Server
https://docs.azure.cn/en-us/postgresql/flexible-server/service-overview
[4] A Simplified Introduction to Azure Database for PostgreSQL Flexible …
https://thwack.solarwinds.com/groups/data-driven/b/blog/posts/a-simplified-introduction-to-azure-database-for-postgresql-flexible-server
[5] Azure Database for PostgreSQL flexible server documentation
https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/azure/postgresql/
[6] Azure Database for PostgreSQL flexible server vs. Single Server
https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/azure/postgresql/flexible-server/concepts-compare-single-server-flexible-server
[7] Storage options - Azure Database for PostgreSQL - Flexible Server
https://docs.azure.cn/en-us/postgresql/flexible-server/concepts-storage
[8] Azure Database for PostgreSQL - Flexible Server - Learn Microsoft
https://learn.microsoft.com/de-de/azure/postgresql/flexible-server/overview

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