DP-300 Plan and implement data platform resources Practice Question
Which THREE of the following are valid options for migrating an on-premises SQL Server database to Azure SQL Database?
⚠ Common exam trap
Many candidates confuse SSIS (an ETL tool) with a database migration tool, or assume the Azure portal can directly connect to an on-premises server, when in fact it only works with BACPAC files already uploaded to Azure Blob Storage.
Answer choices
Why each option matters
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
✓
Use the Data Migration Assistant (DMA) to assess and migrate.
The Data Migration Assistant (DMA) is a Microsoft tool specifically designed to assess on-premises SQL Server databases for compatibility issues and then perform a seamless migration of schema and data to Azure SQL Database. DMA handles both assessment and migration in a single workflow, making it a valid and recommended option for migrating to Azure SQL Database.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
Use SQL Server Integration Services (SSIS) to migrate schema and data.
Why it's wrong here
SSIS is for ETL, not direct database migration.
- ✓
Use the Data Migration Assistant (DMA) to assess and migrate.
Why this is correct
DMA is a supported tool for assessment and migration.
- ✓
Export to a BACPAC file and then import to Azure SQL Database.
Why this is correct
BACPAC is a common method for exporting and importing.
- ✓
Use transactional replication to continuously replicate data to Azure SQL Database.
Why this is correct
Transactional replication can be used for online migration with minimal downtime.
- ✗
Use the Azure portal's 'Import database' wizard directly from on-premises.
Why it's wrong here
The Azure portal can import a BACPAC but not directly from on-premises without a file.
Go deeper
Related to this question
Learn chapter
Overview of Azure Data Platform Options
Key term
Azure SQL Performance Tuning
Azure SQL Performance Tuning is the process of optimizing the speed and efficiency of queries and database operations in Microsoft Azure SQL Database or SQL Managed Instance to reduce latency and improve throughput.
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