AzureSQL Server

SQL Server IaaS Agent Extension |Part-1

What is SQL Server IaaS Agent Extension?

The SQL Server IaaS Agent Extension runs on top of Azure VM to help automate administrative tasks for SQL Server.  This extension gets installed automatically whenever SQL Server VM is provisioned from Azure marketplace.

I am not using SQL VM image from Azure Marketplace then what?

This Extension gets installed automatically most of the time but not in this case because you’re not using SQL VM image from Azure Marketplace. You must install this extension explicitly by registering SQL Server VM with SQL Server VM Resource. I never forget to complete this step.

FAQs related to SQL Serve IaaS Extension

Is it possible to install this extension manually?

Yes, you can also install this extension manually using Azure power shell.

List down some benefits of SQLIaaSExtension. Why do we need this agent extension?

Here is the list of automated\administrative tasks supported by SQL Server Iaas Agent Extension:

  1. SQL Server automated backups : It automatically schedules the backup of SQL Server instances (both default and Named)
  2. Automatic patching of SQL Server : It Automatically Patches operating system without any manual Intervention in a maintenance window.
  3. Azure key vault integration : This enables to install and automatically configure the integration of Azure key vault with SQL Server VM.

Do we need any downtime for Installing SQL IaaS Agent Extension?

Yes, Installing this extension restarts SQL Server service. So, downtime is required in order to install this extension.

What are the prerequisites of installing and using this extension?

SQLIaaSExtension is supported on below mentioned Operating Systems and SQL Server versions. please understand because Azure is changing every now and then you must check this link for the latest information.

Operating system:

  • Windows Server 2008 R2
  • Windows Server 2012
  • Windows Server 2012 R2
  • Windows Server 2016
  • Windows Server 2019

SQL Server version:

  • SQL Server 2008
  • SQL Server 2008 R2
  • SQL Server 2012
  • SQL Server 2014
  • SQL Server 2016
  • SQL Server 2017
  • SQL Server 2019

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