SQL Server on Linux

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 SQL Server on Linux: What You Need to Know Before Migrating


Nowadays, many organizations are considering migrating their SQL Server databases from Windows to Linux. This decision is often motivated by factors such as cost and security, but before jumping into the Linux world, there are some important considerations to keep in mind.

In this post, we'll explore what database administrators (DBAs) should know before choosing Linux over Windows for SQL Server deployments. We'll highlight some of the key differences between the two platforms and discuss the impact on SQL Server features and services.


Understanding the Basics

Before delving into the specifics, it's important to have a basic understanding of the differences between Linux and Windows. While both are operating systems, they have distinct architectures and approaches to managing system resources and services.

Windows is a proprietary operating system developed by Microsoft, while Linux is an open-source operating system that is freely available and maintained by a global community of developers. Windows uses a graphical user interface (GUI) to manage system resources and services, while Linux relies on command-line tools and configuration files.

Choosing the Right Services

One of the most critical factors to consider when migrating SQL Server from Windows to Linux is the availability of SQL Server and Windows services on the Linux platform. Here are the SQL Server and Windows services that are not supported on Linux:

  1. SQL Server Agent
  2. Analysis Services (Multidimensional mode)
  3. Reporting Services (Native mode) - deprecated in SQL Server 2017 and later versions
  4. Integration Services .However, SQL Server 2019 introduced a new feature called SQL Server Integration Services on Linux (SSIS on Linux), which allows you to run SSIS packages on Linux using Docker containers.

If any of these services are critical to your SQL Server deployment, you should carefully evaluate the impact of their absence on your overall solution. However, many of the features that are not directly supported on Linux can be replaced with open-source alternatives or third-party tools.


Core Features of SQL Server on Linux

Despite the absence of some services, most of the core features of SQL Server are available on Linux, including support for Transact-SQL, Always On Availability Groups, data compression, backup and restore, and various security features.

Additionally, SQL Server on Linux offers several advantages over Windows, such as improved performance and scalability. 

Conclusion

In summary, migrating SQL Server from Windows to Linux requires careful planning and consideration of several key factors. Before making the switch, DBAs should evaluate the availability of SQL Server and Windows services on the Linux platform, as well as the impact on core SQL Server features and performance.

While the absence of some services may pose challenges, SQL Server on Linux offers several advantages and can provide a more cost-effective and secure solution for organizations. By carefully evaluating the pros and cons, DBAs can make an informed decision that meets the unique needs of their organization.

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