Greetings Azure Community!
January 2024 has been an exhilarating start to the year for Azure Database for PostgreSQL Flexible Server. We have launched significant updates and features that continue to enhance our service capabilities. This month, we are thrilled to share with you a series of advancements ranging from Server Logs going to GA to the introduction of a new Azure region. Let us dive into these updates and see how they can benefit your PostgreSQL experience on Azure.
Feature Highlights of the Month:
- Migration service in Azure Database for PostgreSQL in Preview.
- Server Logs General Availability (GA) with CLI support.
- Added support for new regions.
- Update on Postgres 11 retirement.
- CLI support for Read Replica Features in Preview.
- Azure Postgres team at PGConf.EU-2023.
1. Migration service in Azure Database for PostgreSQL – Preview
We are excited to announce the public preview of the migration service in Azure Database for PostgreSQL. This new service is designed to streamline customer journeys to the cloud by simplifying the migration of customer PostgreSQL databases to Azure. With support for a variety of source environments, including on-premises server, AWS RDS for PostgreSQL, Azure Virtual Machines, and Azure Database for PostgreSQL - Single Server, the migration service in Azure Database for PostgreSQL is the go-to solution for a hassle-free transition to Azure.
To learn more, refer Migration service in Azure Database for PostgreSQL Preview.
2. Server Logs General Availability (GA) with CLI support
We are excited to announce that Server Logs for Azure Database for PostgreSQL Flexible Server have reached General Availability (GA). This enhancement now includes support for Command-Line Interface (CLI), making it more accessible and efficient for developers and administrators. Key features include:
- Ease of Access: Access server logs via CLI, streamlining the process of monitoring and troubleshooting.
- Custom Retention Settings: Tailor the retention period of your logs according to your operational needs.
- Enhanced Monitoring: Gain deeper insights into your server's performance and issues, aiding in proactive management.
To learn more about, refer to Server logs for Azure Database for PostgreSQL - Flexible Server.
3. Added Support for New Azure Regions
This January marks a significant expansion for Azure Postgres as we introduce support for several new regions: UAE Central, Italy North, and Israel Central. This expansion is part of our ongoing commitment to providing localized and efficient cloud services globally. With these additions, Azure Postgres users can enjoy the following benefits:
- Localized Data Storage: Ensures compliance with regional data protection regulations.
- Enhanced Performance: Reduced latency for businesses operating in or near the region.
- Increased Resilience: Expands Azure's global footprint, contributing to better disaster recovery capabilities.
For a complete list, refer to Azure PostgreSQL Flexible Server supported regions.
4. Update on PostgreSQL 11 Retirement
Based on the PostgreSQL community's version policy, each major version of PostgreSQL is supported for 5 years following its initial release. PostgreSQL 11, which saw its last version 11.22 released on November 9, 2023, will no longer receive security and bug fixes from the PostgreSQL community beyond this date.
- Users can create and operate PostgreSQL 11 servers on Azure Database for PostgreSQL Flexible Server until November 9, 2025.
- Any updates with PostgreSQL community provided minor versions will be available for PostgreSQL 11 servers until November 9, 2023.
- From November 9, 2023, to November 9, 2025, while users can continue using and creating new instances of PostgreSQL 11 on the Flexible Server, they will be subject to the restrictions of other retired PostgreSQL engines.
This extension of Postgres 11 support is part of Azure's commitment to providing a seamless migration path and ensuring continued functionality for users. To learn more, refer Azure Postgres version policy.
5. CLI support for Read Replica Features in Preview
Azure Database for PostgreSQL - Flexible Server now includes CLI support for managing new, preview features of read replicas. Previously available through the portal and REST API, you can now promote read replicas to primary servers and manage virtual endpoints via CLI.
To learn more about it refer to the Create and manage read replicas in Azure Database for PostgreSQL - Flexible Server documentation page.
6. Azure Postgres Team at PGConf.EU 2023
Microsoft demonstrated its commitment to the PostgreSQL community through its Platinum sponsorship of PGConf EU 2023, held in Prague, Czechia. The event, attended by participants from over 50 countries, saw significant involvement from the Azure Postgres team. The team engaged in numerous activities, including delivering talks and managing a well-received booth.
Sessions Delivered
Customers can now watch the following sessions online, highlighting the Azure team's expertise and insights into PostgreSQL:
- Keynote: All the Postgres Things at Microsoft - Keynote by @charlesfeddersenMS
- Community Panel - Postgres at Scale: Dealing with Challenging Workloads – with @AlicjaKucharczyk
- Beginner's Guide to Partitioning vs. Sharding in Postgres - Presented by @clairegiordano
- Making your patch more committable - By @melanieplageman.
- Leveraging pgBadger for Effective PostgreSQL Troubleshooting - By @AlicjaKucharczyk .
- Tame the growth of your database - Presented by @AdamWolk.
- The path to using AIO in postgres - Delivered by @Andres Freund.
- So you want a PGDay in your city - Delivered by @Teresa_Giacomini
- Sponsor: Building awesome AI applications faster on PostgreSQL - A session by @Arda Aytekin.
- Sponsor: Building a managed cloud service with PostgreSQL core - Talk by @PaulMayers
These sessions are a valuable resource for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of PostgreSQL and its various applications. For a complete list refer to the PGConfEU sessions playlist.
In Conclusion
January has set a promising tone for 2024, and we are just getting started. These updates reflect our commitment to continuously improving and adapting our services to meet your needs. We encourage you to share your thoughts on these features and any suggestions for future enhancements. Do not hesitate to reach out to us via email using Ask Azure DB for PostgreSQL.
As we continue this journey, stay tuned for more updates and improvements in the coming months. Your insights and experiences are invaluable to us, so please feel free to share them in the comments below or through our feedback channels.