VENDORiQ: Oracle Introduces Oracle Database@Azure with Microsoft

Why It’s Important

This move is particularly interesting, given the rivalry between the two vendors and Oracle’s efforts to migrate Oracle clients to its own Cloud. Oracle has enjoyed some growth with its Oracle Cloud offerings. 

However, Microsoft has gained many Oracle customers through Azure SQL services and has also expanded into Oracle’s reporting and analytics capabilities. Migrating workloads from Oracle databases to other Cloud databases can be challenging, especially when the database is closely integrated with the application’s architecture. Organisations that wish to migrate all core solutions to Azure will face the added complexity of managing virtual machines to support their Oracle databases.

By enabling OCI directly on Azure ‘bare metal’, Oracle has created a far more consistent migration path for Oracle clients looking to leverage the broader Azure Cloud ecosystem. While the Azure OCI offering does compete with its own Cloud service, it also encourages users to retain the fundamental Oracle architecture.

Enterprises can now use the new services to create a unified and integrated Cloud environment in Azure, while still meeting their specific workload and application needs. It is a strong case for ‘lift and shift’ of important (legacy) solutions to the Cloud. It also allows clients to continue developing new services on top of their existing Oracle investments.

In this case, enterprise users now have more flexibility in where to run their databases on OCI, Azure, or both. As well as taking advantage of Azure’s pricing options, including pay-as-you-go and committed use discounts.

Who’s Impacted?

• Cloud architecture team

What’s Next?

Oracle clients considering a Cloud migration should explore both Oracle Cloud and Azure options. Both platforms have merits. Do not discount a multi-Cloud approach, though take care to explore the longer term costs of moving data between the two Cloud offerings. 

Subsequently, engaging in a comprehensive risk assessment and ROI analysis can guide decisions around transitioning to any new platform, considering factors such as scalability, security, cost-efficiency, and technical support. 

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