Migrating from on-premises to cloud databases has become a prevailing trend. The advantages are clear: cloud databases not only match the functionality of their on-premises counterparts but also offer superior flexibility, scalability, and availability. Additionally, cloud database services offer secure, easy access from any location and manage the entire infrastructure, relieving users of such concerns.
Amazon Relational Database Service (Amazon RDS) stands out as a particularly popular web service. It supports a range of tasks associated with setting up and managing relational databases in the cloud, offering a user-friendly and cost-effective approach. In this article, we will delve into Amazon RDS, exploring its unique features and benefits.
Table of contents
- What is Amazon RDS?
- Amazon RDS features
- Benefits of using Amazon RDS
- Supported database engines in Amazon RDS
- Amazon RDS vs. Google Cloud SQL vs. Azure SQL Database
- Amazon Aurora vs RDS: What is the difference?
- Unlocking the potential of universal database IDE for Amazon RDS
- How to connect to any AWS RDS databases using GUI
- Conclusion
What is Amazon RDS?
Amazon RDS, offered by Amazon Web Services (AWS), is not a standalone database but rather a service designed for the management of relational databases. It supports a wide range of popular SQL database engines, enabling users to effortlessly deploy and maintain database instances while eliminating the need for the labor-intensive tasks associated with traditional database administration.
The robust functionality of Amazon RDS makes it a valuable solution for businesses seeking to harness the power of relational databases within a cloud-based environment.
Amazon RDS features
Amazon RDS offers the following capacities:
- Replication: RDS allows the creation of read replicas, which are read-only copies of database instances. This enables applications to access data without making any changes to the original production database.
- Storage: Amazon RDS provides three types of storage options. The default option is the general-purpose solid-state drive (SSD). For I/O-intensive workloads, the provisioned input-output operations per second (IOPS) type is recommended. Additionally, there’s the Magnetic type, which serves as a cost-effective alternative.
- Monitoring: The monitoring feature is accessible through Amazon CloudWatch, enabling users to access capacity and I/O metrics for their RDS instances.
- Patching: Amazon RDS offers patches for all supported database engines, allowing users to choose when to apply them.
- Backups: RDS includes managed instance backups and transaction log backups, facilitating point-in-time recovery of databases when needed. Users can specify the retention period and restore databases to any point within that period.
- Encryption: Security is a priority with Amazon RDS. All backups and data at rest are safeguarded through public key encryption.
- Monthly Billing: Amazon RDS follows a straightforward pricing model, where users are billed monthly for the instances they launch.
Benefits of using Amazon RDS
Amazon RDS stands out as one of the most popular cloud database services, highly favored by database specialists. It offers a range of compelling advantages to its users:
- Simplified Management and Administration: Amazon RDS seamlessly integrates with popular database engines like MySQL/MariaDB, SQL Server, Oracle, and PostgreSQL. This familiarity allows users to work with these databases in the cloud just as they would on-premises. Managing multiple databases becomes effortless through the console, eliminating the need for specific database management tools. However, if preferred, major management tools remain compatible with Amazon RDS databases.
- No Administrative Hassles: Amazon RDS takes care of all administrative tasks, from hardware provisioning and database setup to patching, backups, and billing. This means users can sidestep the time, effort, and expenses associated with these tasks. If desired, manual control options are available, ensuring your database stays up-to-date and consistently accessible.
- Enhanced Security: Amazon RDS prioritizes data security with a comprehensive set of features. Users can benefit from the Amazon Virtual Private Cloud (VPC) for network-level isolation when running their databases. Security groups and built-in firewalls enable precise control over database access, permitting only specified IP addresses. Moreover, IAM roles are available for database users, adding an extra layer of security. Lastly, SSL and TLS encrypted connections guarantee the protection of data in transit.
- Scalability and Performance: Amazon RDS empowers users to adjust compute and memory resources according to their specific requirements, eliminating the risk of overpaying for unused resources. Scaling can be executed manually or automatically, based on predefined requirements and metrics. Additionally, Multi-AZ deployments allow achieving read scaling, further enhancing performance capabilities.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Amazon RDS charges users every month only for the resources they actively utilize, eliminating upfront costs. Moreover, the service offers Reserved Instances, providing significant discounts for long-term usage.
In summary, Amazon RDS combines ease of use, robust security, scalability, and cost-effectiveness to offer a compelling solution for managing databases in the cloud.
Supported database engines in Amazon RDS
Amazon RDS, launched in October 2009, initially supported only MySQL databases. Since then, it has expanded to include other popular database engines like Microsoft SQL Server, MariaDB, Oracle Database, PostgreSQL, and Amazon’s own Aurora engine. Let’s delve into the specifics of these databases.
MySQL/MariaDB
MySQL, known for being open-source, user-friendly, powerful, and flexible, stands as one of the world’s most widely used database management systems. MariaDB, also an open-source RDBMS, was developed by MySQL’s original creators. Amazon RDS fully supports all versions of both MySQL and MariaDB, enabling users to seamlessly use their existing code written for these databases.
Microsoft SQL Server
Developed by Microsoft, SQL Server is a widely used relational database management system. Amazon RDS accommodates SQL Server versions from 2012 through 2022 and adopts the SQL Server licensing model. This approach spares users from acquiring additional licenses for cloud usage, as their existing resources are accessible in AWS RDS. Both Standard storage and provisioned IOPS options are offered by Amazon RDS for SQL Server.
Oracle Database
Amazon RDS supports the Oracle licensing model, allowing users to operate Oracle databases in the cloud without extra costs. It also supports all current Oracle versions, ensuring users can continue their on-premise work seamlessly in the cloud.
PostgreSQL
Amazon RDS for PostgreSQL replicates the functionality of the traditional PostgreSQL database and ensures easy integration of existing codes, applications, and tools while offering enhanced scalability and effortless deployment benefits.
Amazon Aurora
A fully managed database service, Amazon Aurora is compatible with both MySQL and PostgreSQL. It is available in Amazon RDS, allowing the use of familiar tools with these databases. Aurora outperforms both MySQL and PostgreSQL in speed, providing a reliable and efficient solution for various applications developed and maintained in the AWS cloud.
Thus, Amazon RDS allows the users of MySQL, SQL Server, Oracle, and PostgreSQL to migrate their databases to the cloud and continue working with them with no hassle.
Amazon RDS vs. Google Cloud SQL vs. Azure SQL Database
Amazon RDS is not the sole option for a cloud database platform. Other major players in the market, such as Google and Microsoft, have also introduced their cloud services with global reach. Specifically, Google offers Google Cloud SQL, and Microsoft provides Azure SQL Database. While these platforms share many similarities in functionality, there are distinct differences that can influence a user’s choice of platform. We have prepared a comparison table of these three renowned cloud services.
| Feature | Amazon RDS | Amazon Aurora |
|---|---|---|
| Essence | A fully managed relational database service, built as an overlay technology on existing databases, that supports various database engines | Fully managed cloud database developed from scratch by AWS as a separate database option |
| Setup and Customization | Quick and easy setup with preconfigured parameter settings | Requires more upfront customization for data storage but offers the ability to create different databases for specific use cases |
| Hardware and Scaling | Runs on dedicated hardware clusters with certain limitations but can be moved between regions or Availability Zones easily | Offers virtually unlimited compute and storage scaling capabilities but involves risks with live data transfers |
| Fault Tolerance and Failover | Provides scalability and automation but lacks built-in fault tolerance and automated failover | Has built-in fault tolerance and automated failover for continuous availability with minimal downtime |
| Performance | Offers a wide range of instance types and features to optimize query performance | Provides better latency, higher scalability, and encrypted storage for high-performance and secure applications |
| Security | Supports MFA, IAM user authentication, storage encryption, and VPC security groups | Offers data encryption in transit and at rest, IAM authentication, and VPC security groups |
Generally, according to the opinions of many users, Amazon RDS stands out by offering the most extensive array of services and supporting a wider range of database engines compared to other cloud platforms. However, this versatility may result in more intricate pricing calculations.
In contrast, Microsoft and Google may not provide as many options, but customers tend to rate the Google Cloud platform higher in terms of ease of database migration and security. Azure SQL Database is the preferred choice for customers who are accustomed to relying on Microsoft products and primarily work with SQL Server. It also boasts additional advantages such as high availability and performance.
Ultimately, the choice between Amazon RDS, Google Cloud SQL, and Azure SQL Database depends on specific user requirements and the existing ecosystem in use.
Amazon Aurora vs RDS: What is the difference?
Amazon Aurora is a relational database that is designed for working in the cloud, compatible with MySQL and PostgreSQL. It offers a wide range of features, including automated replication and backup capabilities, and it is often the default choice for those seeking high performance, scalability, and availability for mission-critical applications.
You can use Amazon Aurora within Amazon RDS, but it isn’t available as an independent standalone service.
By selecting Amazon Aurora as your preferred database engine in Amazon RDS, you gain access to the outstanding advantages it offers, including enhanced performance, scalability, and availability for your databases and the applications built upon them. On the other hand, Amazon RDS supports five more database engines besides Aurora, so you can work with them within RDS.
Let us have a closer look at Amazon Aurora vs Amazon RDS
| Feature | Amazon RDS | Amazon Aurora |
|---|---|---|
| Essence | A fully managed relational database service, built as an overlay technology on existing databases, that supports various database engines | Fully managed cloud database developed from scratch by AWS as a separate database option |
| Setup and Customization | Quick and easy setup with preconfigured parameter settings | Requires more upfront customization for data storage but offers the ability to create different databases for specific use cases |
| Hardware and Scaling | Runs on dedicated hardware clusters with certain limitations but can be moved between regions or Availability Zones easily | Offers virtually unlimited compute and storage scaling capabilities but involves risks with live data transfers |
| Fault Tolerance and Failover | Provides scalability and automation but lacks built-in fault tolerance and automated failover | Has built-in fault tolerance and automated failover for continuous availability with minimal downtime |
| Performance | Offers a wide range of instance types and features to optimize query performance | Provides better latency, higher scalability, and encrypted storage for high-performance and secure applications |
| Security | Supports MFA, IAM user authentication, storage encryption, and VPC security groups | Offers data encryption in transit and at rest, IAM authentication, and VPC security groups |
Advantages and disadvantages of Amazon RDS
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Wide range of features and managed backups | Limited scalability and sharding support |
| Performance metrics and reports | Single point of failure without Multi-AZ |
| Multiple DB engines support | Higher cost, especially for advanced features |
| Seamless work with existing applications | Slower node addition due to data copying |
Advantages and disadvantages of Amazon Aurora
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Up to 5 times better performance than RDS | Limited customization due to proprietary nature |
| Up to 15 low-latency read replicas | Limited tooling |
| MySQL and PostgreSQL support | Potential vendor lock-in |
| Managed backups with rollback provisions | InnoDB storage engine only |
| Faster, more durable, and cloud-native architecture | No AWS free tier offer |
| Aurora Serverless for cost-effective workloads | Uncertain Aurora Serverless costs in advance |
In summary, Amazon RDS is a versatile option for various database engines, while Amazon Aurora offers better performance and scalability but has limitations in customization and engine support. Amazon RDS is a good choice for standard database applications, while Aurora is ideal for demanding applications. The choice between them depends on specific use cases and requirements.
Unlocking the potential of universal database IDE for Amazon RDS
While Amazon RDS provides a range of built-in tools for online database management, many users prefer to continue using their preferred on-premise solutions, particularly GUI-based Integrated Development Environments (IDEs). As a result, leading software providers have made sure their solutions are compatible with popular cloud platforms.
If you are working with Amazon RDS and managing multiple databases, it’s advisable to choose an IDE that supports them all in the cloud environment.
Devart has introduced its latest product, dbForge Edge, designed to meet the needs of full-stack database professionals, including software engineers, database developers, administrators, and data analysts.
This solution comprises four specialized Integrated Development Environments (IDEs) customized for SQL Server, MySQL (including MariaDB), Oracle, and PostgreSQL (with Amazon Redshift). Each of these four IDEs, known as Studios, covers the entire spectrum of database development, management, administration, data analysis, and reporting.
The primary objective of dbForge Edge is to deliver users a comprehensive toolset right out of the box, minimizing the need for manual efforts through visualization and automation features.
Key features of dbForge Edge include:
- SQL Coding Assistance: A set of features that accelerate code writing and improve code quality, potentially doubling the user’s productivity.
- Query Profiler: A dedicated tool that assists in creating and analyzing queries, regardless of their complexity.
- Database Design: Support for entity-relationship diagrams with reverse engineering capabilities.
- Database Comparison & Synchronization: Identification and synchronization of differences in database schemas and table data, along with the ability to deploy changes to dedicated platforms.
- Database Administration: A comprehensive set of features for monitoring and managing server sessions and user activities.
- Data Management & Analysis: A range of specialized tools for efficient data management, analysis, and reporting, including data import and export, visual data editing, data report generation, and database documentation generation, among others.
- Source Control: A module that allows users to commit and revert changes directly from within the IDE interface, with support for all major version control systems.
dbForge Edge is compatible with SQL Server, MySQL, Oracle, and PostgreSQL databases in Amazon RDS.
How to connect to any AWS RDS databases using GUI tools
To access your cloud databases, simply launch the Studio designed for the specific database management system. Once launched, connect to the desired database, and you can seamlessly continue your work using the robust on-premises GUI solution.
To find the connection information for a DB instance in the AWS Management Console, follow these steps:
- Sign in to the AWS Management Console.
- In the left navigation pane, click Databases. This will display a list of your DB instances.
- Click the name of the DB instance to display its details.
- On the Connectivity & security tab, you will find the endpoint and the port number to connect to the DB instance.
- The master user name can be found on the Configuration tab under Availability.
Important! Before connecting to any database in Amazon RDS, make sure that the DB instance is publicly accessible and that access is granted through the inbound rules of the DB instance’s security group.
Connect to RDS MySQL
To work effectively with Amazon RDS for MySQL, you should utilize dbForge Studio for MySQL which is a part of dbForge Edge solution. This powerful tool offers a comprehensive range of features for creating, managing, and administering MySQL and MariaDB databases, including those hosted in the cloud.
Do the following to connect to the MySQL database in Amazon RDS:
- Launch the Studio for MySQL and click New Connection.
- On the General tab, enter the hostname, the port, the username, and the password.
- Optional: Click Test Connection to ensure that your settings are correct.
- Click Connect.
Connect to RDS SQL Server
The dbForge Edge includes the Studio for SQL Server, an all-in-one integrated development environment (IDE) tailored for SQL Server database development, management, and administration. This comprehensive solution provides robust functionality, encompassing a wide array of database tasks, ranging from SQL coding assistance to version control, all enhanced with powerful automation capabilities.
To connect to the SQL Server database in Amazon RDS, you should perform similar steps as in the previous example:
- Launch the Studio for SQL Server and click the New Connection icon.
- On the General tab, enter the server address, the login, and the password.
- Click Test Connection to ensure that your settings are correct, or just click Connect.
Connect to RDS PostgreSQL
For PostgreSQL development and management in Amazon RDS, dbForge Studio for PostgreSQL, also provided by dbForge Edge, is an excellent choice. This versatile IDE offers a user-friendly graphical interface suitable for database developers, managers, and analysts of various skill levels. It comes equipped with all the essential tools for handling PostgreSQL databases, whether they are hosted on-premise or in the cloud.
To start working with your cloud databases in RDS for PostgreSQL, just open the connection:
- Launch dbForge Studio for PostgreSQL and open New Connection as in other Studios.
- On the General tab, enter the server address, the login, and the password, and specify the database to work with.
- Click Connect, or first click Test Connection to verify the connection details.
Conclusion
Amazon RDS is a key player in cloud database management, offering a robust and scalable platform that simplifies working with various databases, eliminating the complexities of traditional database administration. Its versatility and compatibility with multiple database engines make it an ideal choice for a broad spectrum of application needs. Numerous businesses are drawn to migrating their databases to Amazon RDS. Besides, the ability to continue using preferred tools in the cloud saves users time and ensures uninterrupted workflow with cloud databases.
For those managing multiple databases in Amazon RDS, the dbForge Edge solution is a noteworthy option. It offers an exceptional feature set through some of the most powerful and user-friendly Integrated Development Environments (IDEs) for MySQL, SQL Server, Oracle, and PostgreSQL. Edge is fully compatible with Amazon RDS-hosted databases. To evaluate its effectiveness, dbForge Edge offers a fully functional 30-day trial, allowing you to test its capabilities in real-world scenarios.
