We’re announcing the upcoming retirement of Azure Data Studio (ADS) on February 6, 2025, as we focus on delivering a modern, streamlined SQL development experience. ADS will remain supported until February 28, 2026, giving developers ample time to transition.

This decision aligns with our commitment to simplifying SQL development by consolidating efforts on Visual Studio Code (VS Code) with the MSSQL extension, a powerful and versatile tool designed for modern developers.

Why Retire Azure Data Studio?

Azure Data Studio has been an essential tool for SQL developers, but evolving developer needs and the rise of more versatile platforms like Visual Studio Code have made it the right time to transition. Here’s why:

Focus on innovation

VS Code, widely adopted across the developer community, provides a robust platform for delivering advanced features like cutting-edge schema management and improved query execution.

Streamlined tools

Consolidating SQL development on VS Code eliminates duplication, reduces engineering maintenance overhead, and accelerates feature delivery, ensuring developers have access to the latest innovations.

Why Transition to Visual Studio Code?

VS Code is the #1 developer tool, trusted by millions worldwide. It is a modern, versatile platform that meets the evolving demands of SQL and application developers. By transitioning, you gain access to cutting-edge tools, seamless workflows, and an expansive ecosystem designed to enhance productivity and innovation. We’re committed to meeting developers where they are, providing a modern SQL development experience within VS Code. Here’s how:

Modern development environment

VS Code is a lightweight, extensible, and community-supported code editor trusted by millions of developers. It provides:

• Regular updates.
• An active extension marketplace.
• A seamless cross-platform experience for Windows, macOS, and Linux.

Comprehensive SQL features

With the the MSSQL extension in VS Code, you can:

• Execute queries faster with filtering, sorting, and export options for JSON, Excel, and CSV.
• Manage schemas visually with Table Designer, Object Explorer, and support for keys, indexes, and constraints.
• Connect to SQL Server, Azure SQL (all offerings), and SQL database in Fabric using an improved Connection Dialog.
• Streamline development with scripting, object modifications, and a unified SQL experience.
• Optimize performance with an enhanced Query Results Pane and execution plans.
• Integrate with DevOps and CI/CD pipelines using SQL Database Projects.

Streamlined workflow

VS Code supports cloud-native development, real-time collaboration, and thousands of extensions to enhance your workflows.

Transitioning to Visual Studio Code: What You Need to Know

We understand that transitioning tools can raise concerns, but moving from Azure Data Studio (ADS) to Visual Studio Code (VS Code) with the MSSQL extension is designed to be straightforward and hassle-free. Here’s why you can feel confident about this transition:

No loss of functionality

If you use ADS to connect to Azure SQL databases, SQL Server, or SQL database in Fabric, you’ll find that the MSSQL extension supports these scenarios seamlessly. Your database projects, queries, and scripts created in ADS are fully compatible with VS Code and can be opened without additional migration steps.

Familiar features, enhanced  experience

VS Code provides advanced tools like improved query execution, modern schema management, and CI/CD integration. Additionally, alternative tools and extensions are available to replace ADS capabilities like SQL Server Agent and Schema Compare.

Cross-platform and extensible

Like ADS, VS Code runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux, ensuring a consistent experience across operating systems. Its extensibility allows you to adapt it to your workflow with thousands of extensions.

If you have further questions or need detailed guidance, visit the ADS Retirement page. The page includes step-by-step instructions, recommended alternatives, and additional resources.

Continued Support

With the Azure Data Studio retirement, we’re committed to supporting you during this transition:

• Documentation: Find detailed guides, tutorials, and FAQs on the ADS Retirement page.
• Community Support: Engage with the active Visual Studio Code community for tips and solutions. You can also explore forums like Stack Overflow.
• GitHub Issues: If you encounter any issues, submit a request or report bugs on the MSSQL extension’s GitHub repository.
• Microsoft Support: For critical issues, reach out to Microsoft Support directly through your account.

Transitioning to VS Code opens the door to a more modern and versatile SQL development experience. We encourage you to explore the new possibilities and start your journey today!

Conclusion

Azure Data Studio has served the SQL community well,but the Azure Data Studio retirement marks an opportunity to embrace the modern capabilities of Visual Studio Code. Transitioning now ensures you’re equipped with cutting-edge tools and a future-ready platform to enhance your SQL development experience.

For a detailed guide on ADS retirement , visit aka.ms/ads-retirement.

To get started with the MSSQL extension, check out the official documentation.

We’re excited to see what you build with VS Code!