Running SQL Server on M1/M2 Mac Using Docker

Introduction

• Objective: Guide on running SQL Server on M1/M2 Mac using Docker.
• Context: Previous video on Windows setup led to Mac users facing issues. Transitioned to using a MacBook for demonstration.

Challenges of Running SQL Server on Mac

• SQL Server lacks a Docker image for ARM processors (used in M1/M2 Macs).
• Solution: Use Azure SQL Edge, which supports ARM processors.
  • Primarily for IoT; sufficient for development with some feature limitations.

Setting Up Azure SQL Edge

• Step 1: Pull the Azure SQL Edge Docker image.
  • Use command from Azure SQL Edge Docker page.
• Step 2: Start the container.
  • Use the provided docker run command.
  • Important: Change the password to a strong one (capital letters, numbers, symbols).

Understanding the Docker Run Command

• Command: docker run with options:
  • --cap-add=SYSPTRACE: Adds Linux capabilities (traces processes).
  • -e ACCEPT_EULA=1: Accepts the End User License Agreement.
  • -e SA_PASSWORD=[your password]: Sets the sysadmin password.
  • -p 1443:1433: Maps port 1443 on host to 1433 in container.
  • --name azure-sql-edge: Names the container.
  • -d: Runs the container in detached mode (background).
  • Image Name: Matches the pulled image.

Connecting to Azure SQL Edge

• Use Azure Data Studio.
• Connection settings: Server localhost, Username sa, Password (used in previous step).
• Verify by checking default databases.

Persistent Data Storage

• Without persistence, container shutdown/deletion leads to data loss.
• Solution: Use data volume containers (not host directories on Mac).
  • Create a Docker volume (e.g., SQL volume) and map it inside the container.
  • Use the same volume name for persistence across container restarts.

Managing Docker Volumes

• View Volumes:
  • Docker Desktop: Left panel under volumes.
  • Command Line: docker volume list.
• Deleting Volumes:
  • Delete unused or unwanted volumes via Docker Desktop or docker volume rm [volume_name].

Troubleshooting Docker Containers

• Viewing Logs:
  • Docker Desktop: Click on the container to view logs.
  • Command Line: Use docker logs [container_id].
  • For real-time log updates, use docker logs -f [container_id].
• Common Errors: Strong password requirement failures.
  • Ensure the password meets SQL Server policy standards.

Conclusion

• Provides a method to run SQL Server-like capabilities on Mac using Docker.
• Highlights persistence solutions and troubleshooting tips.
• Encourages feedback and interactions via comments.