Understanding Active-Passive Disaster Recovery and Transition Steps for Azure API Management and App Service

Question

When setting up an active-passive disaster recovery (DR) setup, does it mean that the secondary (passive) environment is not actively processing requests or transactions? Is it essentially a standby environment that's ready to take over in case the primary (active) environment fails?

In a scenario with Azure API Management (APIM) pointing to a SQL database and an Azure App Service in the primary region, what considerations and steps should be taken if a DR is triggered and the secondary region becomes the primary to ensure a smooth transition and operation?

Answer 1

Hello Jagadeeskumar Lenin

Yes, in an active-passive disaster recovery setup, the secondary environment is essentially a standby environment that's ready to take over in case the primary environment fails. The secondary environment is not actively processing requests or transactions until it becomes the primary environment. In a scenario with Azure API Management (APIM) pointing to a SQL database and an Azure App Service in the primary region, there are several considerations and steps that should be taken if a DR is triggered and the secondary region becomes the primary to ensure a smooth transition and operation. Here are some steps that you can take: 1. Replicate the SQL database to the secondary region and ensure that it is up-to-date. 2. Replicate the Azure App Service to the secondary region and ensure that it is up-to-date. 3. Update the DNS records to point to the secondary region. 4. Update the APIM configuration to point to the SQL database and Azure App Service in the secondary region. 5. Test the failover process to ensure that it works as expected. 6. Monitor the system closely after the failover to ensure that everything is working as expected. It's important to note that the steps may vary depending on your specific setup and requirements. Additionally, it's recommended to test the failover process regularly to ensure that it works as expected and to make any necessary adjustments.

Answer 2

1. Database Replication: Ensure that the Azure SQL database in the primary region is configured for replication to the secondary region. This could be achieved using technologies like Azure SQL Database Geo-Replication or Azure SQL Database Managed Instance Failover Groups. Replication ensures that data remains synchronized between the primary and secondary regions, allowing for failover without data loss.
2. Failover Testing: Regularly perform failover testing to validate the failover process and ensure that it works as expected. This includes testing the failover of the Azure SQL database and the failover of the App Service to the secondary region. Document the failover procedures and ensure that all stakeholders are aware of their roles and responsibilities during a DR event.
3. Traffic Routing: Update the DNS records or configure traffic routing mechanisms to direct incoming requests to the resources in the secondary region after failover. This may involve updating DNS records, configuring Azure Traffic Manager, or using Azure Front Door to route traffic to the new primary region.
4. APIM Configuration: Update the endpoint configurations in Azure API Management to point to the resources (SQL database and App Service) in the new primary region. This ensures that API requests are directed to the correct backend services after failover.
5. Health Monitoring and Alerting: Set up health monitoring and alerting for the resources in the new primary region to detect any issues or performance degradation. Use Azure Monitor to monitor the health and performance of Azure SQL Database, Azure App Service, and Azure API Management. Configure alerts to notify administrators of any issues that require attention.
6. Backup and Restore: Ensure that backup and restore procedures are in place for the resources in the new primary region. This includes regular backups of the Azure SQL database and the App Service configuration. Test the backup and restore procedures to ensure that data can be recovered in case of data loss or corruption.
7. Documentation and Communication: Document the DR procedures, including failover steps, recovery steps, and contact information for key stakeholders. Communicate the DR plan to relevant teams and stakeholders, including IT operations, development teams, and business stakeholders. Ensure that everyone is aware of their roles and responsibilities during a DR event.

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hth

Marcin