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Modernization Advisor for SQL Server on Azure Virtual Machines The Modernization Advisor for SQL Server on Azure Virtual Machines is a tool currently in public preview that aids in modernizing SQL Server workloads by transitioning them to a fully managed PaaS environment, specifically Azure SQL Managed Instance. This tool is designed to assist users in migrating from SQL Server on Azure VMs to Azure SQL Managed Instance, which can provide cost savings, performance optimization, and simplified management. Key Features of Modernization Advisor Cost Optimization : It helps assess whether Azure SQL Managed Instance is a more cost-effective option compared to SQL Server on Azure VMs[1][2]. Performance Optimization : The tool evaluates your current SQL Server configuration and provides insights on how to improve performance by migrating to Azure SQL Managed Instance[1][3]. Configuration Matching : It matches your SQL Server VM configuration with a suitable Azure SQL Managed Instance c...

Here's the summary of available information: [In Preview] Public Preview: Azure SQL Updates (Late-April 2025) MSSQL Extension for VS Code : Added Schema Compare functionality to analyze and synchronize database schemas directly within the editor[4]. Target Platform Support : Microsoft.Build.Sql 2.0.0 Preview now includes support for SQL Server 2025 in database projects[4]. Earlier versions (1.0.0) already supported SQL database in Fabric [4]. Tooling Updates : The 170.0 release of SqlPackage/DacFx (mid-April 2025) provides compatibility with SQL Server 2025 and Fabric integration[3][5]. Additional Context The query references https://azure.microsoft.com/updates?id=489702 , but no specific details about this update are available in the provided search results. For accuracy, always verify the URL directly for unreferenced updates. Key Sources : [4] for VS Code Schema Compare, [3][5] for tooling releases. Background : SQL Server 2025 offers AI/analytics enhancemen...

The Azure Cosmos DB Rust Software Development Kit (SDK) is now in public preview. You can use the Rust SDK to connect to an Azure Cosmos DB for NoSQL account and perform operations on databases, containers, and items. In addition to creating, reading, upd

In mid-February 2025, the following updates and enhancements were made to Azure SQL: Convert Azure SQL databases to Hyperscale with improved progress reporting and explicit cutover control. Learn more.

In late-April 2025, the following updates and enhancements were made to Azure SQL: The MSSQL extension for VS Code now includes Schema Compare in its April release—making it easier to compare database schemas, identify differences, and apply updates acros

You can now use MongoDB version 8.0 on vCore-based Azure Cosmos DB for MongoDB. This release provides access to the latest MongoDB features, helping you build and manage your applications more efficiently. Learn more.

Azure has launched a generally available feature for user-managed plugin enablement in Azure Database for MySQL – Flexible Server, starting with the validate password plugin. This update allows users to directly manage plugins on their MySQL flexible server instances without requiring Microsoft support intervention. For example, the validate password plugin can be enabled or disabled via built-in stored procedures ( CALL az_install_validate_password_plugin(); to enable and CALL az_uninstall_validate_password_plugin(); to disable). Once enabled, the plugin’s configuration parameters become accessible through the Azure portal's Server Parameters page. This capability enhances server security by allowing enforcement of strong password policies. Additionally, the update introduces a stored procedure for undo log cleanup to help prevent excessive storage consumption. The caching sha2 password plugin is also now exposed to customers by default, configurable through server parameters i...

User-Managed Plugin Enablement in Azure Database for MySQL - Flexible Server The recent launch of user-managed plugin enablement in Azure Database for MySQL – Flexible Server signifies a significant enhancement in terms of customization and security. This feature allows users to directly manage plugins for their database servers, providing greater flexibility and control over database management functions. Key Features Plugin Management : Users can now enable and manage plugins such as the validate_password plugin. This capability helps enhance server security by enforcing strong password policies, which can be crucial for protecting sensitive data[5]. General Availability : This feature is now generally available, meaning it is fully supported and ready for use in production environments. It marks an important milestone in the evolution of Azure Database for MySQL – Flexible Server by offering more granular control over server configuration[5]. Impact and Benefits The introd...

Azure Database for MySQL – Flexible Server has launched a generally available feature for user-managed plugin enablement, allowing customers greater control over plugin management without needing Microsoft support intervention. This is achieved through newly introduced built-in stored procedures specifically for managing plugins and undo log cleanup. Key points about the feature include: User-managed plugin enablement : Customers can now enable or disable the Validate Password Plugin directly via built-in stored procedures: To enable: CALL az_install_validate_password_plugin(); To disable: CALL az_uninstall_validate_password_plugin(); Once enabled, the plugin’s configuration parameters become accessible through the Server Parameters page in the Azure portal, letting users customize plugin behavior on their own. Undo log cleanup procedure : Another built-in stored procedure allows manual cleanup of undo logs, helping prevent unnecessary storage consumption and maintaining opti...

Summary of User-Managed Plugin Enablement in Azure Database for MySQL – Flexible Server Overview Azure has announced the general availability of user-managed plugin enablement in Azure Database for MySQL – Flexible Server . This feature allows users to directly manage plugins for their MySQL databases hosted on Azure, enhancing security and flexibility. Features and Benefits Manage Plugins : Users can now manage plugins without requiring support intervention, starting with the validate_password plugin [5]. Security Enhancement : By enabling the validate_password plugin , users can enforce strong password policies to enhance the security of their MySQL servers[5]. General Availability : This feature is now generally available, making it accessible to all users of Azure Database for MySQL – Flexible Server[5]. Relevant Update on Azure An update on the Azure website (id=474838) highlights this launch, confirming that user-managed plugin enablement is available for Azure Databas...

Overview of User-Managed Plugin Enablement in Azure Database for MySQL Flexible Server Azure has introduced a significant feature enhancement for Azure Database for MySQL – Flexible Server by making user-managed plugin enablement generally available. This update allows users to directly manage plugins, starting with the validate_password plugin, which can help enhance server security by enforcing strong password policies. Key Features and Benefits Plugin Management : Users can now manage plugins directly, including enabling and configuring specific plugins to meet their security requirements. Validate Password Plugin : The validate_password plugin is now available for user management. It allows administrators to enforce strong password policies, improving the overall security posture of their MySQL databases. Security Enhancement : By enabling this plugin, users can enforce complex passwords and adhere to best practices for password management, reducing the risk of weak passwo...

Summary: User-Managed Plugin Enablement in Azure Database for MySQL Flexible Server Overview Azure Database for MySQL – Flexible Server has introduced user-managed plugin enablement, allowing users to directly manage plugins. This feature enhances server security and provides greater flexibility in managing database configurations. Key Features Plugin Management : Users can now enable and manage plugins such as the validate_password plugin, which helps enforce strong password policies, improving server security[5]. General Availability : This feature is now generally available, making it accessible to all users of Azure Database for MySQL – Flexible Server[5]. Related Updates Azure Update Page : The Azure updates page provides detailed information about this release and other service updates, including enhancements to plugin management and security features[5]. Benefits Enabling user-managed plugins allows for: Enhanced Security : By enabling plugins like validate_passw...

User-Managed Plugin Enablement in Azure Database for MySQL – Flexible Server Overview Azure Database for MySQL – Flexible Server has announced the general availability of user-managed plugin enablement. This feature allows users to manage plugins directly, enhancing the security and functionality of their MySQL servers in Azure. Key Features Plugin Management : Users can now enable and manage plugins on their MySQL servers. This includes the ability to configure security plugins like the validate_password plugin, which enforces strong password policies to improve server security[5]. Enhanced Security : By enabling plugins such as validate_password, users can enforce robust password policies, thereby enhancing the security of their databases[5]. User Control : This feature provides more flexibility and control for users over their MySQL server configurations, allowing them to optimize their database setups according to specific needs. Update Details The update can be tracked ...

Generally Available: User-managed Plugin Enablement in Azure Database for MySQL – Flexible Server Azure Database for MySQL – Flexible Server now supports user-managed plugin enablement, allowing users to directly manage plugins. This feature starts with the validate_password plugin , which enhances server security by enforcing strong password policies. Key Features: Direct Plugin Management : Users can enable plugins like the validate_password plugin to enforce strong password policies. Enhanced Security : The validate_password plugin improves server security by enforcing robust password requirements. Flexibility and Control : Users have more control over their MySQL server configurations with the ability to manage plugins directly[3]. Best Practices for Writing Effective Prompts for Perplexity AI When crafting prompts for AI tools like Perplexity AI, consider the following best practices: Prompt Crafting Guidelines: Clear and Specific : Ensure the prompt is precise and ...

Azure Database for MySQL – Flexible Server Plugin Enablement Summary User-managed plugin control : Directly manage MySQL plugins, starting with the validate_password plugin to enforce strong password policies[3]. Built-in stored procedures : Use az_install_validate_password_plugin() and az_uninstall_validate_password_plugin() for plugin management without requiring support intervention[5]. Undo log cleanup : A new stored procedure helps manually clean up undo logs to optimize storage usage[5]. Best Practices for Writing Perplexity AI Prompts (General guidelines as no specific sources provided) Specificity : Clearly state the task (e.g., "Summarize…and format with bullet points"). Structure : Use formatting directives like "Use headings and bullet points" to enforce organization. Context : Include relevant details (e.g., "You are an expert information retrieval assistant"). Citation requirements : Specify "Cite credible source...

Summary of User-Managed Plugin Enablement in Azure Database for MySQL – Flexible Server Key Features: User-Managed Plugin Enablement : Supports enabling/disabling plugins like the validate_password plugin directly by users. Reduces reliance on Azure support for plugin management. New Stored Procedures for Plugin Management : CALL az_install_validate_password_plugin(); — enables the validate_password plugin. CALL az_uninstall_validate_password_plugin(); — disables the plugin. Enhanced Configuration Management : Plugin settings are accessible via the Server Parameters page in the Azure portal, facilitating easier customization. Undo Log Cleanup Procedure : New stored procedure to manually clear undo logs, optimizing storage and performance. Default Exposure of caching sha2 password Plugin : Allows users to enable and configure this authentication plugin through server parameters for improved security features. Best Practices for Writing Effective Prompts for Per...

Summary of "Launched Generally Available: User-managed plugin enablement in Azure Database for MySQL – Flexible Server" Key Updates and Features User-managed plugin enablement : Support for directly enabling and configuring plugins, starting with the validate_password plugin, which improves security by enforcing strong passwords. No support team intervention needed to enable or disable plugins. New stored procedures for plugin management : Enable validate_password : CALL az_install_validate_password_plugin(); Disable validate_password : CALL az_uninstall_validate_password_plugin(); Configuration via Azure portal : Once enabled, plugin settings can be adjusted through the Server Parameters page. Undo Log cleanup : A new stored procedure helps manually clean the Undo Log to prevent unnecessary storage consumption. Authentication plugin exposure : The caching_sha2_password plugin is now exposed by default, enabling users to configure it through server paramet...

Effective Methods for Information Retrieval 1. Understanding User Needs Clarify the query : Ensure you understand the specific information the user seeks. Identify keywords : Highlight important terms related to the topic for focused searching. 2. Utilizing Reliable Data Sources Official documentation : Use primary sources like product official docs, blogs, and updates. Reputable repositories : Consult well-known repositories, journals, or industry reports. Up-to-date information : Focus on recent data, especially for technology updates. 3. Search Strategies Boolean Search Use operators like AND , OR , NOT to refine results. Keyword Optimization Use precise, relevant keywords. Include specific phrases or technical terms. Filtering Results Apply filters such as date, source type, and relevance. Use advanced search options when available. 4. Effective Query Formulation Be clear and specific : Avoid vague questions; specify what you want. Provide context : ...

In mid-January 2025, the following updates and enhancements were made to Azure SQL Managed Instance: Filter egress traffic to Azure Storage accounts to help safeguard against data exfiltration. Learn more.

Effective Methods for Information Retrieval 1. Understand and Clarify Your Information Need Be Specific : Clearly define your query with precise keywords. Provide Context : Include relevant background to help refine results. 2. Use Structured Querying Employ Lists and Bullet Points : When requesting multiple items or comparisons, specify a preference for list or table formats. Highlight Formatting Preferences : Indicate if you want headings, numbered points, or other styles to improve clarity. 3. Leverage Advanced Search Techniques Use Boolean Operators : AND, OR, NOT to narrow or expand results. Apply Filters : Date, source type, or domain filters to enhance relevance. Use Quotation Marks : Search for exact phrases. 4. Search from Reliable Sources Official Documentation : For technical info, consult vendor docs or trusted industry sites. Peer-Reviewed Articles : Use scholarly journals for research-based info. Reputable News Outlets : For current updates and annou...