What is the main function of the HANA Smart Data Access?

The main function of HANA Smart Data Access (SDA) is to provide SQL-based access to remote data sources without the need to physically move that data into the HANA database. This capability allows users to query data from various external sources, such as other databases or big data platforms, as if it were residing within HANA. SDA creates a virtual layer where the HANA database can interact with, analyze, and combine remote data seamlessly, leveraging HANA's in-memory processing power while maintaining the data's original location.

This approach not only saves storage costs and time associated with data replication but also ensures that users have access to the most current and up-to-date data without the overhead of continual data migrations or updates. In contrast, other options like managing cloud storage services, optimizing data loading times, or ensuring data redundancy do not align with the primary purpose of HANA Smart Data Access, as they focus on different operational aspects of data management and storage rather than the seamless integration and access of remote datasets.