Azure Database for PostgreSQL 17 Now Available with Seamless In-Place Upgrades

PostgreSQL 17 Now Available on Azure

Microsoft has officially rolled out PostgreSQL 17 on its Azure Database for PostgreSQL Flexible Server platform, introducing in-place major version upgrades as a key feature of this release. This enhancement streamlines the upgrade process, sparing users from the need to set up a new server, transfer data, or modify connection strings.

Benefits of In-Place Upgrades

The in-place upgrades come with several advantages. Users can maintain their existing server endpoints and firewall configurations, significantly minimize downtime with an efficient upgrade workflow, and manage High Availability-enabled servers more easily. These updates are designed to simplify the user experience and enhance the operational efficiency for database maintainers.

Understanding PostgreSQL

For those unfamiliar, PostgreSQL is a widely embraced open-source database management system known for its reliability and robust feature set. It boasts strong community support and excels at managing complex applications and large datasets, making it a favored choice among developers and organizations.

New Features in PostgreSQL 17

With the announcement, Microsoft noted that PostgreSQL 17 becomes the default version for creating new servers and conducting major upgrades on Azure Database for PostgreSQL Flexible Server. This release includes numerous enhancements such as improved vacuum performance, advanced JSON function capabilities, and dynamic logical replication.

The Importance of Improved Vacuum Performance

A standout feature in this update is the enhanced vacuum performance. PostgreSQL employs a system known as Multi-Version Concurrency Control (MVCC), which allows multiple users to operate on the database simultaneously without conflicts. Instead of deleting data immediately, it marks records as “dead” or “invisible.” The vacuum function effectively serves as a garbage collector, restoring allocated space by cleaning up these “dead” rows, and in version 17, its capabilities have been further improved.

Key Highlights of PostgreSQL 17

JSON Processing Upgrades: New capabilities and optimizations for extensive querying and transforming of JSON data.

Dynamic Logical Replication: Improved mechanisms for real-time data distribution, enhancing replication controls and throughput.

Query Planner Improvements: Enhanced algorithms for smarter join ordering and parallel planning for intricate workloads.

Security and Compliance: Upgraded encryption features and audit logging, designed to meet enterprise-level security standards.

How to Upgrade to PostgreSQL 17

Users interested in upgrading can easily transition to PostgreSQL 17 via the Azure Portal. Begin by accessing your flexible server resource, navigate to the Overview page, and in the toolbar, select Upgrade, then choose PostgreSQL 17 before confirming the upgrade process. For added security, it’s advisable to check the Upgrade sidebar in the PostgreSQL version upgrade textbox to ensure that the version targeted is indeed “17”.

Command Line Upgrade Option

Alternatively, upgrading can be accomplished through the command line with the following command:

az postgres flexible-server upgrade \

--name

--resource-group

--target-version 17

Enhanced Safety Features

Microsoft’s in-place upgrade functionality includes built-in health checks and rollback safety features, aiming to mitigate risks during upgrades and ultimately reduce maintenance time.

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