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Use Managed Tables

Specifies if the table create scripts should use Managed Tables and the External Location clause. When set to Y, tables are created as managed Delta tables in the default metastore location, which simplifies setup because Databricks handles the underlying storage automatically. When set to N (default), tables are created as external tables, which gives you explicit control over where data files are stored in cloud storage but requires the ExternalLocation field to be configured on each Databricks connection (validation CON_21005007). Use managed tables for simpler environments where storage ownership is not a concern; use external tables when you need portability, cross-workspace access, or control over the storage path.

Notes:

  • This setting is part of the Databricks settings category.
  • The default value for this setting is N.
  • When set to N, each Databricks connection must have the ExternalLocation field configured.