Snowflake SnowPro Certification Practice Test

What is the key difference between a Transient Table and a Permanent Table?

1. Transient Tables can’t be queried

2. Transient Tables have different data types

3. Transient Tables have no Fail-Safe mode

4. Permanent Tables are temporary

The correct answer is: Transient Tables have no Fail-Safe mode

The key difference that highlights the nature of Transient Tables in Snowflake is that they do not have a Fail-Safe mode. This means that data stored in Transient Tables is not recoverable after it has been deleted or when the time period for data retention has expired. In contrast, Permanent Tables come with a Fail-Safe feature that allows for recovery of data for a specified period, adding an extra layer of data protection. Transient Tables are often used for intermediate or temporary data storage where the data does not need to be retained long-term, making the lack of a Fail-Safe an appropriate trade-off. In situations where data is crucial and requires recovery options, Permanent Tables would be the preferable choice due to their additional safeguards. The other options present inaccuracies regarding the functions and attributes of Transient and Permanent Tables. For example, Transient Tables can certainly be queried, and there is no difference in the data types they support as compared to Permanent Tables. Furthermore, Permanent Tables are not temporary by nature; rather, they are intended for long-term storage, distinguishing them from their transient counterparts.