4.3. Reflection Checkpoint: Non-Relational Data Mastery

Key Takeaways

Before proceeding, ensure you can:

• Distinguish when to use Azure Files vs. Blob Storage (protocol: SMB vs. REST)
• Explain Blob Storage access tiers and their cost trade-offs
• Describe Cosmos DB's consistency levels from Strong to Eventual
• Select the appropriate Cosmos DB API based on data model requirements
• Explain why Cosmos DB charges for Request Units (throughput guarantee)

Self-Assessment Questions

1. A legacy Windows application needs to mount cloud storage as a network drive. Which service? (Answer: Azure Files)
2. A social network needs to store and query friend-of-friend relationships. Which Cosmos DB API? (Answer: Gremlin API)
3. What's the difference between Hot and Archive blob tiers? (Answer: Hot is immediate access, Archive requires rehydration)

Connecting Forward

In Phase 5, you'll explore how non-relational storage integrates into modern analytics pipelines. You'll see Data Lake Gen2 (enhanced Blob Storage for analytics), how Synapse and Databricks process massive datasets, and how Power BI visualizes insights. The storage foundations from this phase directly feed the analytics layer.