Azure VMs are on-demand, scalable computing resources provided by Microsoft Azure and are available in several series, such as the E, M, and D-series, each of which is tailored for specific types of workloads. By deploying SAP on Azure VMs, organizations can achieve operational flexibility, high availability, and cost savings.
However, it’s important to note that not all Azure VMs are suitable for all SAP workloads. To ensure optimal performance and stability, SAP certifies specific VMs for various applications, databases, and use cases.
Considerations When Choosing an Azure VM
When selecting an SAP-certified Azure virtual machine, consider the following parameters:
- SAP Workload: Evaluate your SAP application’s performance requirements. For demanding applications like SAP S/4 HANA, choose high-memory VMs like the M-Series.
- Capacity Requirements: Estimate memory, storage, and compute needs. SAP-certified Azure VMs offer various combinations of vCPUs, RAM, and storage options.
- Scalability: For applications expected to grow over time, consider VMs that provide scalability options.
- High Availability and Disaster Recovery (HA/DR): If your SAP system is mission-critical, choose a VM that supports Azure Availability Sets and Zones.
- Cost: Opt for a VM that offers the best balance between cost and performance.
Examples of SAP-Certified Azure VMs
Below are some examples of SAP-certified Azure VMs and typical use cases:
- E-series VMs (E64s_v3): Suitable for general purpose SAP applications. It offers 64 vCPUs, 432 GiB of RAM, and 800 GiB of SSD.
- M-series VMs (M416ms_v2): Designed for large in-memory databases like SAP HANA. Comes with 416 vCPUs, 11,400 GiB of RAM, and 8 TiB of SSD.
- D-series VMs (D64s_v3): Good for entry-level and test SAP systems. Provides 64 vCPUs, 256 GiB of RAM, and 400 GiB of SSD.
The decision of which VM to deploy should be based on your SAP workload’s specific needs and the VM capabilities.
Moving SAP Workloads to Azure
After identifying the appropriate VM for your SAP workload, the next step is migration. Azure Migrate is a Microsoft service that simplifies, expedites, and automates the migration process. It includes tools for assessment, migration, and optimization to ensure a smooth transition from on-premise or other clouds.
Conclusion
Choosing the right SAP-certified Azure VM for your SAP workload need not be a daunting task. By understanding your workload’s requirements and aligning them with the capabilities of different Azure VMs, you can make an informed decision that boosts your SAP application’s performance and efficiency. Always remember to consider factors such as workload, capacity, scalability, high availability, disaster recovery, and cost when making your choice.
Practice Test
True or False: Microsoft Azure has a list of SAP-certified virtual machines that are suitable for SAP workloads.
- True
- False
Answer: True
Explanation: Microsoft Azure has a broad catalog of SAP-certified Azure VMs that are designed to host different SAP applications and their highly demanding workload.
Which Azure VM’s storage type is SAP HANA certified?
- a. Azure Standard Storage
- b. Azure Premium Storage
- c. Azure Managed Disk
- d. Azure Blob Storage
Answer: b. Azure Premium Storage
Explanation: Azure Premium Storage is a high-performance storage option that is best suited for SAP HANA, offering low latency for high-IOPS workloads.
True or False: All SAP-certified Azure VMs are suitable for all SAP applications and workloads.
- True
- False
Answer: False
Explanation: Not all SAP-certified Azure VMs are suitable for all SAP applications and workloads. The selection process should be based on the specifics of the SAP application and workload requirements.
What is the maximum size of memory that Azure Mv2-series VMs can provide for SAP NetWeaver workload?
- a. 2 TB
- b. 3 TB
- c. 6 TB
- d. 4 TB
Answer: c. 6 TB
Explanation: Azure Mv2-series VMs are SAP HANA certified and can provide up to 6 TB of memory, ideal for larger SAP NetWeaver workloads.
True or False: It is not essential to review the recommended VM size after deploying an SAP-specific workload on Azure.
- True
- False
Answer: False
Explanation: It is important to continually review the deployed VM size based on the actual performance and load, to ensure optimal running of SAP workloads and efficient usage of Azure resources.
True or False: For some workloads, Azure VM can scale up without restarting.
- True
- False
Answer: True
Explanation: Some Azure VM series like the DSv3 and ESv3 series offer the ability to scale up without having to restart the VM. This is beneficial for managing unpredictable workloads.
Which Azure feature helps to mitigate the risk of VM maintenance events for SAP HANA large instances?
- a. Azure Site Recovery
- b. Live Migration
- c. Azure Backup
- d. Azure Automation
Answer: b. Live Migration
Explanation: Live Migration feature in Azure helps to avoid downtime and impact on workloads by moving running VMs from the host that requires maintenance to another host.
True or False: SAP applications require high network bandwidth, and all Azure VMs provide this by default.
- True
- False
Answer: False
Explanation: Not all Azure VMs provide high network bandwidth by default. The selection of the virtual machine should thus consider the network bandwidth requirement of SAP applications.
True or False: For SAP software that is CPU-intensive, a VM with a high compute to memory ratio is recommended.
- True
- False
Answer: True
Explanation: For CPU-intensive SAP workloads, a VM that has a high compute to memory ratio is preferred as it can provide adequate computing resources for optimal performance.
True or False: Azure Disk Storage can only use SSDs for storing SAP HANA data and log volumes.
- True
- False
Answer: False
Explanation: While SSDs are recommended for their high performance, Azure Disk Storage also offers HDDs as a cost-effective storage solution for non-critical data.
Interview Questions
What is an SAP-certified Azure virtual machine?
An SAP-certified Azure virtual machine is a virtual machine that has been tested and certified by SAP to run specific SAP workloads on the Microsoft Azure cloud platform.
What are the benefits of using an SAP-certified Azure virtual machine for SAP workloads?
Using an SAP-certified Azure virtual machine ensures that the virtual machine meets SAP’s strict performance and reliability standards, resulting in better performance and stability for SAP workloads. Additionally, SAP support is available for SAP-certified Azure virtual machines, providing additional assurance for customers.
How can I determine which Azure virtual machine is SAP-certified for a specific SAP workload?
You can check the SAP-certified Azure VM types on the SAP Certified Solutions Directory website. Select “Microsoft Azure” as the cloud provider and search for the specific SAP workload you are looking to deploy.
What factors should I consider when choosing an SAP-certified Azure virtual machine for a given SAP workload?
When choosing an SAP-certified Azure virtual machine for a given SAP workload, factors to consider include the size of the virtual machine, the amount of memory and storage required, the specific SAP workload requirements, and any additional features or capabilities needed for the workload.
Can I use a non-SAP-certified Azure virtual machine for SAP workloads?
While it is technically possible to use a non-SAP-certified Azure virtual machine for SAP workloads, it is not recommended. SAP-certified Azure virtual machines have been specifically tested and optimized for SAP workloads, ensuring better performance, stability, and support from SAP.
What is the difference between a regular Azure virtual machine and an SAP-certified Azure virtual machine?
A regular Azure virtual machine is a generic virtual machine that can run a wide range of workloads, while an SAP-certified Azure virtual machine has been specifically tested and certified by SAP to run SAP workloads, ensuring better performance and support.
Are there any specific Azure VM sizes that are recommended for SAP workloads?
Yes, SAP has specific guidelines for VM sizes that are recommended for running SAP workloads. These guidelines can be found on the SAP Certified Solutions Directory website.
How can I ensure that my SAP workload is running efficiently on an SAP-certified Azure virtual machine?
To ensure that your SAP workload is running efficiently on an SAP-certified Azure virtual machine, regularly monitor performance metrics such as CPU utilization, memory usage, and disk I/O. You can also use tools like Azure Monitor to track performance and troubleshoot any issues.
What kind of support is available for SAP-certified Azure virtual machines?
SAP-certified Azure virtual machines come with support from both Microsoft and SAP. Microsoft provides support for the Azure platform, while SAP provides support for the SAP workload running on the virtual machine.
Can I resize an SAP-certified Azure virtual machine once it is deployed?
Yes, you can resize an SAP-certified Azure virtual machine after it is deployed to meet changing workload requirements. Azure provides the capability to resize virtual machines without incurring downtime, allowing you to scale up or down as needed.
Are there any additional costs associated with using an SAP-certified Azure virtual machine for SAP workloads?
There may be additional costs associated with using an SAP-certified Azure virtual machine, such as licensing fees for SAP software or any additional Azure services needed to support the workload. It is important to consider these costs when planning and budgeting for your SAP workload deployment on Azure.
extutorials.com