Allocated vs. Used Memory in SQL Server Elastic Pool

Question

Hello!

I’m seeking help regarding the reduction of allocated space in databases within an SQL Server elastic pool. The allocated space in the elastic pool I'm using is significantly larger than the actual used space (due to recent deletions of deprecated data, which reduced the size of the databases). As a result, my pool is much larger than what should theoretically be necessary.

Is there a way to adjust the allocated space so it recalculates according to the new, reduced sizes of my databases? Is there an alternative approach to SHRINK that could be used in this case, or would SHRINK be the best option?

Thank you in advance for any guidance!

Answer 1

Hi @Sinara Medeiros,

Welcome to the Microsoft Q&A and thank you for posting your questions here.I understand your concern about the allocated space in your SQL Server elastic pool being larger than necessary after recent deletions.

Here’s how you can address this issue:

Use Shrink Commands:

• DBCC SHRINKDATABASE: This command reduces the size of the entire database. However, it can lead to fragmentation, so use it judiciously.
• DBCC SHRINKFILE: This is a more targeted approach that lets you shrink specific database files, which can help minimize fragmentation.

For more information, please refer the document: Shrink data files.

Scale Down the Elastic Pool:

• If the allocated space is significantly larger than needed, you might consider scaling down the elastic pool to a lower service tier or compute size. This can be done dynamically using the Azure portal, PowerShell, Azure CLI, or REST API2.

Move Databases:

• Another approach is to move some databases out of the elastic pool to reduce the total allocated space. This can help manage the space more effectively.

For more information, please refer the document: https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/azure/azure-sql/database/elastic-pool-resource-management?view=azuresql

Monitor and Manage Space:

• Regularly monitor the space usage using tools like sys.resource_stats and sys.elastic_pool_resource_stats to keep track of allocated versus used space. This can help you make informed decisions about when to shrink or scale your resources.

For more information, please refer the document: Monitor file space usage.

I hope this information helps. Please do let us know if you have any further queries.

Answer 2

Hi @Sinara Medeiros

You may also refer to below documentation.

Manage file space for databases in Azure SQL Database

Regards，

Zoe Hui

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