Azure Cosmos DB, a globally distributed, multi-model database, is designed to provide elasticity, high availability, and low-latency access in any data model.

Key Features

Multi-Model

Unlike traditional databases that are usually limited to one data model, Cosmos DB provides support for document, key-value, graph, and column-family data models.

Global Distribution

With a single click/tap, you can replicate your data across Azure regions or even on multiple continents. This strategic feature ensures high availability and low-latency access.

Automated Indexing

To enable efficient and secure data retrieval, Cosmos DB offers automatic indexing without the need for manual configuration.

Multi-API Support

This database accommodates different APIs, such as SQL, Cassandra, Gremlin (Graph), Azure Table Storage, and MongoDB. This way, developers can use familiar data models and SDKs without learning new ones.

ACID Transactions

Cosmos DB provides multi-document transactions guaranteeing Atomicity, Consistency, Isolation, and Durability (ACID) to ensure data integrity.

Scalability

You can scale your database throughput or storage independently according to your application’s changing needs. It supports horizontal as well as vertical scaling.

SLA-Backed Performance

The Service-Level Agreements (SLAs) ensure predictable and guaranteed latency.

Data Security

With built-in security features, such as transparent data encryption (TDE) and Role-Based Access Control (RBAC), you can rest assured about the safety of your data.

Consistency Levels

Choose a consistency model among five offered by Cosmos DB: Strong, Bounded Staleness, Session, Consistent Prefix, or Eventual.

Each provides a different trade-off between consistency, availability, and latency.

Compatibility with Azure Services

Seamless integration with other Azure components like Azure Search, Azure Stream Analytics, and HDInsight helps in data exploration, real-time analytics, and other operations.