Azure Data Sync is a powerful tool that allows the synchronization of data across multiple Azure SQL databases. This tool can be used for a variety of purposes, including data backups, disaster recovery, and data distribution. 

This blog is focused specifically on using Azure Data Sync for data synchronization between Azure SQL databases. 

What is Azure Data Sync? 

Azure Data Sync is a service that allows for the synchronization of data between Azure SQL databases and other databases. This synchronization can be one-way or bi-directional and can be scheduled to occur regularly. 

The service works by using a hub-and-spoke topology. The hub database is the central database that stores the master copy of the data, while the spoke databases are the databases that need to be synchronized with the hub. 

The synchronization process involves three main steps: schema synchronization, data synchronization, and conflict resolution.  

1. Schema synchronization ensures that the structure of the databases is the same. 
2. Data synchronization transfers the data between the databases. 
3. Conflict resolution resolves any conflicts that may arise during the synchronization process. 

How to set up Azure Data Sync between Azure SQL databases? 

Setting up Azure Data Sync between Azure SQL databases is a straightforward process, the following steps are involved in the process 

1. Create the hub database: The hub database is the central database that stores the master copy of the data. Create an Azure SQL database that will act as the hub. 
2. Create the spoke databases: The spoke databases are the databases that need to be synchronized with the hub. Create one or more Azure SQL databases that will act as the spokes.
3. Create a sync group: A sync group is a container for the databases that need to be synchronized. Create a sync group and add the hub database and the spoke databases to it. 
4. Configure sync group settings: Configure the sync group settings, such as the sync interval and the sync direction. 
5. Set up synchronization: Set up the synchronization by configuring the sync group to synchronize the data between the hub and spoke databases. 
6. Monitor synchronization: Monitor the synchronization to ensure that it is running smoothly and resolve any issues that may arise. 

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Benefits of using Azure Data Sync 

Azure Data Sync offers several benefits for data synchronization between Azure SQL databases: 

1. Automatic synchronization: Azure Data Sync can be scheduled to occur automatically, ensuring that the data is always up to date. 
2. Bi-directional synchronization: Azure Data Sync can synchronize data in both directions, allowing for two-way data synchronization. 
3. Hub-and-spoke topology: The hub-and-spoke topology allows for a centralized master copy of the data, making it easier to manage and maintain. 
4. Conflict resolution: Azure Data Sync has built-in conflict resolution capabilities, ensuring that any conflicts that arise during the synchronization process are resolved automatically.

In conclusion, Azure Data Sync is a powerful tool that allows for the synchronization of data between Azure SQL databases. With its automatic synchronization, bi-directional synchronization, hub-and-spoke topology, and built-in conflict resolution capabilities, it is an excellent tool for managing and maintaining multiple databases. By following the steps outlined in this blog, you can easily set up Azure Data Sync between your Azure SQL databases and ensure that your data is always up to date.