How to implement synchronization of a local database with a server in a desktop application?

Question

Database

Good afternoon.
Essence of the question:
Imagine that there is a .Net desktop application with a local database installed on a number of clients, each client has its own database.
It is necessary to synchronize client databases with the server so that the "server administrator" can view statistics / reports on databases, etc.
It is planned to be used as an Azure server. What is the best way to organize synchronization?
- SQL database on Azure + SQLite locally;
- Virtual machine with MS SQL server on Azure and let's say MSSQL Express locally?
It is inconvenient for clients to work directly with the server, because they do not have access to the Internet 90% of their working time.

Answer 1

Try SymmetricDS , this project is just about synchronization (replication) in the master-master architecture, taking into account the non-persistent connection between nodes. Openwork seems to be supported. What to put on the client depends on the size and requirements for the database. Most likely suffices SQLite.

Answer 2

You are looking for MERGE replication , which is designed just for this - offline clients periodically fetch data from the publisher, do something offline, then sync back with the publisher. In Azure you will have a Publisher, offline clients - SQL Server Express in Subscriber mode.