Interview Questions and Cloud Deployment Scenarios

One of the most common SQL Server interview topics for experienced professionals is: “What are the different ways to implement SQL Server and how do they compare?” Whether you’re aiming for a role as a Data Engineer, SQL Developer, or DBA, understanding on-premises vs cloud-based deployments is essential. Let’s break it down in simple terms to help you answer confidently.

SQL Server Implementation Options

1. On-Premises SQL Server

• Installed in your company’s physical data center.
• Often used in small-scale or development environments.
• You pay per server or instance, using licensing models like CAL (Client Access License).
• Offers full control over data, services, and configurations.
• Common for Windows-based systems, but also compatible with Linux.

2. Azure PaaS (Platform as a Service)

• Known as Azure SQL Database or Serverless SQL.
• Each database is independent, and you pay per database or elastic pool.
• It is OS-independent (serverless)—no need to manage the underlying infrastructure.
• Offers automated backups, patching, and performance tuning.
• Best for modern apps, lightweight production environments, or databases up to 100 TB.

3. Azure IaaS (Infrastructure as a Service)

• Hosted on Azure Virtual Machines.
• Works like on-premises but runs in the cloud.
• You pay per VM, and you can install multiple SQL Server instances.
• Offers full control over the OS, file structure, and SQL Server settings.
• Ideal for highly scalable, large enterprise workloads (VLDB – Very Large Databases).

Real-Time Use Cases

Key Interview Points to Remember

🔹 Know the difference between logical, physical, and virtual servers.
🔹 Highlight the role of serverless compute in modern PaaS environments.
🔹 Emphasize automation in PaaS (backups, patching, indexing).
🔹 Compare licensing models – server vs database vs VM.
🔹 Discuss HA/DR capabilities – how replication and backup work in each model.

Sample Interview Question:

“What is the difference between SQL Server on-premises and Azure SQL Database?”

Suggested Answer:
On-premises offers full control but requires manual maintenance. Azure SQL Database (PaaS) is a serverless, managed environment with automated operations. Azure IaaS allows SQL to run on VMs for greater control and scalability.

Understanding SQL Server implementation options helps you not only in interviews but also in real-world project decisions. Choose based on control, cost, scalability, and maintenance needs.

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