Free SQL Managed Instance

[Edit Nov 2024] Refresh of free SQL MI brings support for more Subscription types and conversion from free to production SQL MI.

Introducing Free Azure SQL Managed Instance

We're thrilled to announce the Free SQL Managed Instance, allowing you to experience the full capabilities of managed SQL Server in the cloud at absolutely no cost for the first 12 months!

What You Get:

• General Purpose instance with up to 100 databases
• 720 vCore hours of compute every month (do not accumulate)
• 64 GB of storage
• One instance per Azure subscription
• The instance is automatically stopped when you reach the monthly vCore limit; managed instance starts automatically when credits are available again, or you can manually stop it to preserve free monthly vCore hours

How to Get Started:

Getting started is a breeze. Follow these simple steps:

1. Visit the Azure portal: Head to the provisioning page for Azure SQL Managed Instance.
2. Apply Free Offer: Look for the "Want to try Azure SQL Managed Instance for free?" banner and click on the "Apply offer" button.
3. Resource Group: Choose an existing resource group or create a new one.
4. Configure Instance: Set up your instance details, including region, authentication method, networking, security, and additional settings.
5. Review and Create: Review your settings, then click "Create" to set up your free instance.

And just like that, you're ready to explore the capabilities of Azure SQL Managed Instance!

Connect Seamlessly to Your Instance

Connecting to your instance is a breeze, whether you have a public endpoint enabled or disabled:

• Public Endpoint Enabled: Copy the Host value from the Azure portal, paste it into your preferred data tool, and connect.
• Public Endpoint Disabled: Choose to create an Azure VM within the same virtual network or configure point-to-site for connection.

Instance Schedule Tailored to Your Needs

To conserve credits, your free instance is scheduled to be on from 9 am to 5 pm Monday through Friday in your configured time zone. Modify the schedule to suit your business requirements.

Offer Details – Know Before You Go

While our Azure SQL Managed Instance Free Trial is packed with features, there are some limitations to keep in mind:

• vCore hours: 720
• Storage: Up to 64 GB (system files may use up to 32 GB)
• Instances per subscription: 1
• Compute: 4 and 8 vCore instances only
• Service tier: General purpose only
• Hardware: Standard only
• Zone redundancy: Not available
• Failover groups: Not available
• Scaling: Scale up or down within the compute limits
• Backups: 0-7 days for short-term retention, long-term retention (LTR) is unavailable
• Charge for SQL Server license: None

Availability and Support

The free offer is currently available in select regions, including Australia East, East US, East US 2, North Europe, Sweden Central, Southeast Asia, South Central US, UK South, West Europe, West US 2, and West US 3 (subject to change).

Please note:

• No guaranteed SLA
• Currently, upgrading your free instance to the paid version isn't possible. Create a new instance and restore your database to continue without limitations.