How to ingest data to Azure using ODBC software(.exe) application

To ingest data into Azure using an ODBC connection without creating a VM, you have a few alternatives:

1. Azure Data Factory: You can use Azure Data Factory (ADF) to create data pipelines that can connect to on-premises data sources using the Self-hosted Integration Runtime. This allows you to securely connect to your on-prem SQL Server and other data sources without needing a VM. You would install the Self-hosted Integration Runtime on your on-prem server, which acts as a bridge between your on-prem data and Azure services.
2. Azure Logic Apps: If your data ingestion needs are simpler, Azure Logic Apps can be used to automate workflows and connect to various data sources, including SQL databases. It may not provide the same level of control as ADF, but it can be a good option for straightforward data movements.
3. Azure Functions: If you have specific data processing needs, you can create Azure Functions that can connect to your ODBC data source and process the data as needed. This option requires some development effort but can be very flexible.
4. Direct SQL Connection: If your ODBC application supports it, you might be able to connect directly to Azure SQL Database or Azure SQL Managed Instance using a connection string, bypassing the need for an ODBC application altogether.

Each of these options has its own setup and configuration requirements, so you will need to choose the one that best fits your needs and technical capabilities.

Hi prime prime,
It sounds like you're looking to ingest data into Azure without relying on a virtual machine (VM) to install ODBC software. You're currently using a local SQL Server with an ODBC connection and are exploring options for Azure.

Here's a suggestion: You might want to consider using Azure Data Factory for data ingestion. This service provides a robust way to move data from various sources, including ODBC-compatible data stores, directly into Azure without the need for a VM. Here's how you can do it:

Set Up a Self-hosted Integration Runtime: This allows you to connect to your on-premises data sources. Ensure that the 64-bit ODBC driver for your data store is installed on this integration runtime machine.

Create a Linked Service in Azure Data Factory: In the Azure portal, you can set up an ODBC-linked service to connect to your data source. Here’s a quick overview of how to do this:

• Go to the Azure Data Factory or Synapse workspace.
  • Navigate to the Linked Services section and create a new linked service using the ODBC connector.
    • Configure the connection details and test the connection.
    Use Copy Activity: Once your linked service is set up, you can create pipelines that leverage the Copy Activity to move data from your ODBC source to your destination (e.g., Azure SQL, Azure Data Lake, etc.). Monitor and Optimize: Utilize the Azure Monitor service to keep track of pipeline performance and troubleshoot any issues as you go.

This approach eliminates the need for a dedicated VM while still allowing you to connect and migrate data efficiently.

Follow-Up Questions

To assist you further, could you please provide more details on:

• The specific type of ODBC data source you are using (e.g., SQL Server, MySQL, etc.).
• Are there any specific data transformations you're looking to perform as part of the ingestion process?
• What kind of destination in Azure do you plan to use for the ingested data (e.g., Azure SQL Database, Azure Data Lake, etc.)?

Hope this helps, and I'm here if you have more questions!

This response was AI-generated. If the issue is not resolved, please follow up in the comments so we can assist further.

References

• Azure Data Factory Documentation
• Copy data from and to ODBC data stores using Azure Data Factory
• Self-hosted Integration Runtime