- T-SQL
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- Tools and Utilities
- Interoperability
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T-SQL tricks for SQL Server 2012: The joy of data values
In the first article in a series by about changes and new features in T-SQL in SQL Server 2012, expert Robert Sheldon explores the PARSE and TRY_PARSE functions.Tip
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More T-SQL statements in SQL Server 2012 you need to know about
In this second article of a two-part series on new T-SQL statements, expert Serdar Yegulalp reviews command changes to sequencing, date values and more.Tip
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Three new T-SQL commands in SQL Server 2012 to make your life easier
Each release of SQL Server brings changes to Transact SQL. In this tip, expert Serdar Yegulalp gives a walkthrough of tweaks like WITH RESULT SETS for renaming columns and THROW for catching errors.Tip
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Split root table with T-SQL in SQL Azure Federations
SQL Azure Federations can help manage massive amounts of data, says Roger Jennings. In Part 2 of this two-part series, read on for instructions on splitting the federation root table.Tip
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Manage, query SQL Azure Federations using T-SQL
Can SQL Azure help you manage “big data?” SQL Azure Federations enhances traditional partitioning, says Roger Jennings. Part 1 of this two-part series looks at using T-SQL to make federated tables.Tip
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The most dangerous game: Hunting down bad SQL query performance
SQL Server is faster when the queries behind your applications are faster. Learn how to spot bad SQL query performance, and then work with developers so you can improve throughput.Feature
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Uncovering database file information with T-SQL metadata functions
Admins can use metadata functions to reveal detailed information about SQL Server files and filegroups, including file names, IDs and file properties.Tip
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Inspecting property settings with T-SQL metadata functions
There are plenty of other uses for SQL Server 2008 metadata functions beyond just the basics. This includes the ability to view object properties, such as columns and data types.Tip
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Exploring T-SQL metadata functions in SQL Server 2008
Metadata functions in T-SQL can help uncover information about database names, objects and more. Learn the basics of metadata functions and how to apply them here.Tip
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An introductory look at T-SQL system functions
Get the basics on working with various system functions in T-SQL to help assess the finer details of your data.Tip
- VIEW MORE ON : T-SQL
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Pssdiag and Sqldiag Manager – the lifeblood of SQL troubleshooting
What’s the most important part of SQL troubleshooting? Pssdiag and Sqldiag manager, says SQL Server professional Serdar Yegulalp. Find out what makes Pssdiag and Sqldiag so important.Tip
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Configuring SSRS the easy way
Demystify the SQL Server Reporting Services (SSRS) configuration process. Get an overview of this tool and guidelines for how to set up each screen in SSRS from industry professional Roman Rehak.Tip
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Tips for deploying SQL Azure Federations
Reduced SQL Azure pricing, an upgraded management portal, increased database size and the SQL Azure Federations Data Migration Wizard mean multi-tenant and “big data” projects are big possibilities.Tip
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SQL Server 2012 ‘virtually’ out, Microsoft talks features, licensing
With SQL Server 2012 released in a “virtual launch” this month, Microsoft data platform specialist Mark Kromer tells us what his favorite features of the new release are.News | 14 Mar 2012
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Microsoft bulks up SQL Server scalability to rival buff competition
Better SQL Server scalability and lower costs have furthered Microsoft’s reach in recent years, industry observers say, and that’s good, because the competition is big and knows the turf well.News | 02 Mar 2012
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Five things in SQL Server not in SQL Azure
With the excitement over the cloud, it’s easy to forget that Microsoft’s cloud database, SQL Azure, is not for everyone. Learn the five major differences between SQL Azure and SQL Server.Tip
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Three tips for a better SQL Azure migration
A successful SQL Azure migration means picking the right migration tool and loading data into SQL Azure properly.Tip
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SQL Server 2012 release approaches -- what you need to know
Microsoft will soon come out with the long-awaited SQL Server 2012 release, but will your system be ready to take full advantage of the new version, also known as Microsoft Denali? Find out.Feature
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Three easy ways to improve SQL Server performance
A sluggish database does no one any good. Consultant Don Jones offers tips to improve SQL Server performance.Tip
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Don’t get bogged down by sluggish BI system performance -- speed it up
Poor BI system performance can be a real problem, but that doesn’t mean it should get you down, consultant Don Jones says. Find out how to give your system a needed boost.Tip
- VIEW MORE ON : Performance Tuning
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external hard drive
An external hard drive is a portable storage device that can be attached to a computer through a USB or Firewire connection, or wirelessly.Definition
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Managing linked server security in SQL Server
What do you need to know to effectively manage your linked server? Find out in this tip from SQL Server expert Roman Rehak.Tip
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Best practices for preventing a SQL injection attack
One of the sneakiest ways for a hacker to invade your system is via a SQL injection attack. Expert Robert Sheldon explains how to keep hackers out.Tip
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SQL Server security: The implications of user-defined roles
SQL Server security is a topic on many DBAs' minds. But what are the implications of user-defined roles? Expert Serdar Yegulalp explains.Tip
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BI for the SMB: Don't give away business intelligence
With the various challenges SMBs face, securing their business intelligence efforts may seem unimportant. Not so, says expert Don Jones. Find out why.Tip
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SQL Server management trick: Connecting when admins are locked out
How do you connect to SQL Server when all admins have been locked out? Read this tip from Ashish Mehta and learn a new SQL Server management trick.Tip
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Different ways to audit SQL Server security
Strong SQL Server security has become a more important part of a robust defense. But what are your options for security auditing?Tip
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Basit Farooq
Basit Farooq is a senior database administrator with more than a decade of IT experience in development, technical training and database administration.Contributor
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SQL Server security in virtual, physical worlds virtually the same
SQL Server security issues in virtualized environments pretty much mirror the challenges in physical environments, experts say. Standard security guidelines apply.Feature
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SQL Azure security terrifies IT, but loss of control might be real fear
The primary obstacle to SQL Azure security is not specific security gaps, but rather DBAs' reluctance to give up control over SQL Server environments.Feature
- VIEW MORE ON : Security
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Microsoft previews new SQL Server in-memory database features
Microsoft plans to offer new in-memory database capabilities with the next release of SQL Server.News | 07 Nov 2012
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SQL Server stored procedures vs. CLR stored procedures: Time to migrate?
Should you use SQL Server stored procedures or CLR stored procedures? Expert Serdar Yegulalp helps you decide which is more appropriate for you.Tip
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Best practices for preventing a SQL injection attack
One of the sneakiest ways for a hacker to invade your system is via a SQL injection attack. Expert Robert Sheldon explains how to keep hackers out.Tip
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SQL Server stored procedures supercharged in recent, upcoming versions
Microsoft is forever tinkering with SQL Server stored procedures to give queries more thrust. Find out what’s new in SQL Server 2008, 2008 R2 and the next-generation 2012 release.Tip
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Finding your way around SQL Server data preservation
Need to know what a table looked like before changes were changes were made? There are several tools for SQL Server data preservation -- SQL Server change tracking and SQL Server database mirroring among them -- each with its own uses and limitations.Tip
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Top tips and tricks for SQL Server database development
Check out these handy database development best practices, with tips on dealing with batch updates, stored procedures and more.Tip
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SQL Server errors, failures and other problems fixed from the trenches
SQL Server expert Matthew Schroeder gets down into the trenches to help resolve your SQL Server issues. Whether it's a failed cluster installation, a long-running stored procedure that causes a 3 a.m. phone call or a database in suspect mode, he's got you covered with this handbook for DBAs on the SQL Server frontline.Tip
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Check SQL Server database and log file size with this stored procedure
Knowing the size of a SQL Server database is one of the many DBA responsibilities that you can accomplish easily with the stored procedure sp_SDS. Not only will sp_SDS determine "SQL Database Space," but it can also be used to monitor database growth, alert a DBA on data or log file growth, execute a transaction log backup and even provide a detailed breakdown at the file level so a DBA can then shrink files with the most empty space.Tip
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SQL Server source code analysis and management adds database security
Manage and protect your SQL Server databases by implementing source code analysis. Source code is the foundation of any application, and integrating methods to test and debug this code adds a key layer of security. IT security specialist Kevin Beaver explains why source code analysis should be a fundamental component of your SQL Server security measures.Tip
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Configure SQL Server Service Broker for sending stored procedure data
The Service Broker feature in SQL Server 2005 allows you to queue data of stored procedures and other application development components. Instead of processing the data, it's sent to a queue where it can be automatically read at a later date and processed within the message. Follow these steps for setting up Service Broker and experience a rock solid communications' platform for transmitting data from one SQL Server system to another.Tip
- VIEW MORE ON : Stored Procedures
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Coding for seamless SQL Server database mirroring
SQL Server database mirroring can provide high availability to your database. Expert Roman Rehak shares his favorite pieces of code for flawless mirroring.Tip
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Compare and synchronize databases with SQL Compare
Do you frequently need to compare or synchronize your databases? Read this tip by SQL Server expert Roman Rehak to learn the secrets of effective database synchronization using SQL Compare.Tip
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SQL Server merge replication using IIS
In older versions of SQL Server, securely replicating data between sites or companies was not easy to do. Microsoft SQL Server merge replication simplifies the process using Internet Information Services (IIS).Tip
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Choosing SQL Server Service Broker over replication
Denny Cherry explains why it's sometimes a good idea to use the SQL Server Service Broker instead of replication, and demonstrates how to put such a system together.News | 25 Mar 2010
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Choosing SQL Server Service Broker over replication
Denny Cherry explains why it's sometimes a good idea to use the SQL Server Service Broker instead of replication, and demonstrates how to put such a system together.News | 25 Mar 2010
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SQL Server replication: How it works and when to say no
Each form of SQL Server replication offers its own benefits, but sometimes the best option is to avoid replication altogether.Tip
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Push vs. pull: Configuring SQL Server replication
Learn the difference between push and pull subscriptions and how to determine the best placement for SQL Server replication's Distribution Agent.Tip
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Top load balancing methods for SQL Server
There are a number of way to achieve load distribution in SQL Server environments. Learn about some of the key methods, including merge replication, log shipping and SSAS server farm deployment.Tip
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New replication features in SQL Server 2008 and what they mean to you
SQL Server 2008 features several replication improvements, and some are more compelling than others. Here you'll learn what's new with snapshot delivery, peer-to-peer topologies, merge replication and more.Tip
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SQL Server database replication tutorial
SQL Server replication involves some decision making on the part of the DBA. What's the best method for your SQL Server environment -- snapshot, merge or transactional replication? Are there any areas where you can expect to be tripped up? SQL Server MVP Denny Cherry answers these questions as he walks you through the basics and shares some replication tricks.Tip
- VIEW MORE ON : Replication
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Coding for seamless SQL Server database mirroring
SQL Server database mirroring can provide high availability to your database. Expert Roman Rehak shares his favorite pieces of code for flawless mirroring.Tip
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Configuring SSRS the easy way
Demystify the SQL Server Reporting Services (SSRS) configuration process. Get an overview of this tool and guidelines for how to set up each screen in SSRS from industry professional Roman Rehak.Tip
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Big data a big deal for SQL Server 2012, users say
SQL Server 2012 is here, and the Apache Hadoop integration is making the biggest wave, according to some users.News | 11 Apr 2012
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Manage, query SQL Azure Federations using T-SQL
Can SQL Azure help you manage “big data?” SQL Azure Federations enhances traditional partitioning, says Roger Jennings. Part 1 of this two-part series looks at using T-SQL to make federated tables.Tip
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Is cloud-based business intelligence a safe bet?
Cloud-based business intelligence has its attractions, especially for SMBs having a hard time supporting any BI in-house. But don’t forget to ask some crucial questions.Tip
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SQL Server 2012 ‘virtually’ out, Microsoft talks features, licensing
With SQL Server 2012 released in a “virtual launch” this month, Microsoft data platform specialist Mark Kromer tells us what his favorite features of the new release are.News | 14 Mar 2012
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SQL Server 2012 Guide
SQL Server 2012 Guide
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Microsoft bulks up SQL Server scalability to rival buff competition
Better SQL Server scalability and lower costs have furthered Microsoft’s reach in recent years, industry observers say, and that’s good, because the competition is big and knows the turf well.News | 02 Mar 2012
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Five things in SQL Server not in SQL Azure
With the excitement over the cloud, it’s easy to forget that Microsoft’s cloud database, SQL Azure, is not for everyone. Learn the five major differences between SQL Azure and SQL Server.Tip
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When up isn’t enough: Techniques for scaling SQL Server out
Scaling SQL Server out is not easy; that’s why most businesses choose to scale up their databases instead. But some applications give you no choice: You’ve got to look at options for scaling out.Tip
- VIEW MORE ON : Availability and Scalability
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Fault tolerance and backups and snapshots, oh, yes
They are vital tools all DBAs depend on. But what are the best products on the market these days? Expert Don Jones lets us know some of his favorites.Tip
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database replication
Database replication is the frequent electronic copying of data from one computer or server to another so that all users share the same level of information... (Continued)Definition
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Big data a big deal for SQL Server 2012, users say
SQL Server 2012 is here, and the Apache Hadoop integration is making the biggest wave, according to some users.News | 11 Apr 2012
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No-risk SQL Server upgrade for SSRS no problem
Worried about mishaps during your next SQL Server upgrade? What if you could perform an upgrade that is virtually risk free? It is possible, database architect Roman Rehak writes.Tip
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In data warehousing, cost-benefit’s the issue with backup compression
Backup compression is well known to carry the benefit of cost savings to SQL Server shops, but organizations using SQL Server data warehouses may have a few more variables to consider.Tip
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Aiming for zero: Techniques for lossless SQL Server data protection
No doubt you have SQL Server data protection plans in place. But how much data do you stand to lose should disaster strike? Expert Don Jones offers pointers on how to make that number zero.Feature
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Three third-party tools for SQL Server you need to have
SQL Server is packaged with an array of management tools, but it’s not complete. Several third-party tools for SQL Server can help with monitoring, backup and capacity management.The 'Reluctant' DBA
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Finding your way around SQL Server data preservation
Need to know what a table looked like before changes were changes were made? There are several tools for SQL Server data preservation -- SQL Server change tracking and SQL Server database mirroring among them -- each with its own uses and limitations.Tip
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SQL Server backup and restore management tutorial
From system failure to catastrophic disaster, this guide features the backup and recovery know-how that can mean the difference between life and death for your SQL Server database.LEARNING GUIDE
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Backing up SharePoint-related SQL Server databases
Find out exactly which database backup and recovery models you'll need for a full backup and restore of a SharePoint-associated SQL Server database.Tip
- VIEW MORE ON : Backup and Recovery
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Microsoft previews new SQL Server in-memory database features
Microsoft plans to offer new in-memory database capabilities with the next release of SQL Server.News | 07 Nov 2012
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Introduction to SQL Server 2012 Express LocalDB
SQL Server 2012 Express LocalDB is a good way for developers to be able to play around with SQL Server 2012. Learn how to install and get started with it.Tip
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What's new in SQL Server Reporting Services 2012
What's different about SQL Server Reporting Services 2012? What are the new features? Read this tip by expert Roman Rehak to find out.Tip
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SQL Server training benefits for non-DBAs
DBAs know the value of SQL Server training. But what are the benefits for non-DBAs? This tip by Serdar Yegulalp examines who should learn more about SQL Server.Tip
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Compare and synchronize databases with SQL Compare
Do you frequently need to compare or synchronize your databases? Read this tip by SQL Server expert Roman Rehak to learn the secrets of effective database synchronization using SQL Compare.Tip
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Fault tolerance and backups and snapshots, oh, yes
They are vital tools all DBAs depend on. But what are the best products on the market these days? Expert Don Jones lets us know some of his favorites.Tip
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Three SQL Server tips Denny Cherry wants you to know
Which SQL Server technologies are hot right now? What does a SQL expert wish you knew about SQL Server? Hint: BI and data growth have a lot to do with it.News | 26 Jun 2012
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Microsoft SQL Server tools: Native is nice
What are the SQL Server tools provided by Microsoft? Expert Denny Cherry explains what the native tools are and why they’re useful.Tip
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Six SQL bulk copy command gotchas
BCP is a great native tool, but it does have a few limitations. SQL Server expert Serdar Yegulalp discusses some problems and how to avoid them.Tip
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Configuring SSRS the easy way
Demystify the SQL Server Reporting Services (SSRS) configuration process. Get an overview of this tool and guidelines for how to set up each screen in SSRS from industry professional Roman Rehak.Tip
- VIEW MORE ON : Tools and Utilities
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ODBC drivers replacing OLE DB? Say what?
After years of telling SQL Server users to avoid ODBC in favor of OLE DB, Microsoft has suddenly reversed its position and advised going back to ODBC. Why? And what should you do about it?Tip
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Don’t sweat migration from Oracle, Sybase to SQL Azure
Are you considering moving your database to Azure? Concerned about complexity? Read this tip from expert Denny Cherry. Migrating to SQL Azure might be the easiest move ever.News | 12 Mar 2012
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Cloaked in secrecy, Microsoft project aims to wed SQL, NoSQL databases
Microsoft technical fellow David DeWitt is secretly developing a data management system that can do the jobs of both SQL and NoSQL databases. Can he bring the two sides together?News | 01 Mar 2012
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Five things in SQL Server not in SQL Azure
With the excitement over the cloud, it’s easy to forget that Microsoft’s cloud database, SQL Azure, is not for everyone. Learn the five major differences between SQL Azure and SQL Server.Tip
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Microsoft gives tour of new release of SQL Server
Microsoft gave PASS Summit 2010 attendees a walk-through of its Denali SQL Server release, demoing its AlwaysOn, FileTable and expanded SQL Server Integration Services features.News | 11 Nov 2010
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Utilize SSAS for data predictions and classification using Excel
Using Excel as a tool for data mining and predictions is very powerful. Learn how to take advantage of SSAS in SQL Server 2005 with Microsoft Office Excel 2007.Tip
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How to create a SQL Server linked server to DB2
Many SQL Server environments run DB2 servers, too, and often the two servers must be linked. Here's a step-by-step process that shows how to create a SQL Server linked server using Microsoft's DB2 driver.Tip
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Microsoft Access 2007 integration with SQL Server
Microsoft Access 2007 introduces new features to boost integration with SQL Server.Tip
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SSIS package to filter false records
I have a table, let's call it AlarmTriggers and it has a Boolean field pulled into it. When my software writes to it the table doesn't set the field to true. It's kept false. I want to use an SSIS package that filters all false records in the table and pull it over to another server. After the records have been pulled I would like the SSIS package to mark those pulled records as true. So, the source table field pulled must be set to true. I am using SQL Server 2005 Workgroup Edition. Can you tell me how to do this?Ask the Expert
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Efficiently push and pull data in SQL Server
What is the most efficient way to 'PUSH' data from Sybase to MS SQL Server or 'PULL' data into MS SQL Server from Sybase?Ask the Expert
- VIEW MORE ON : Interoperability
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SQL Server Upgrade Advisor, Upgrade Assistant can ease transition pains
You probably think you’re ready to upgrade to the new release, but you might not be as prepared as you think. Before you upgrade, there are some tools to become familiar with, says Bob Sheldon.Tip
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Pros and cons of SQL Server 2012
Performance and support top the lists of pros for going to SQL Server 2012. But application compatibility and “the unknown” might keep you away for now.Tip
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Big data a big deal for SQL Server 2012, users say
SQL Server 2012 is here, and the Apache Hadoop integration is making the biggest wave, according to some users.News | 11 Apr 2012
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No-risk SQL Server upgrade for SSRS no problem
Worried about mishaps during your next SQL Server upgrade? What if you could perform an upgrade that is virtually risk free? It is possible, database architect Roman Rehak writes.Tip
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Oracle vs. SQL Server face-off: Microsoft SQL cheaper, simpler than Oracle DB
SQL Server expert Denny Cherry argues that SQL Server is better than Oracle Database because it is cheaper, simpler and has a better supportive community.Faceoff
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Tips for deploying SQL Azure Federations
Reduced SQL Azure pricing, an upgraded management portal, increased database size and the SQL Azure Federations Data Migration Wizard mean multi-tenant and “big data” projects are big possibilities.Tip
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SQL Server 2012 ‘virtually’ out, Microsoft talks features, licensing
With SQL Server 2012 released in a “virtual launch” this month, Microsoft data platform specialist Mark Kromer tells us what his favorite features of the new release are.News | 14 Mar 2012
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Don’t sweat migration from Oracle, Sybase to SQL Azure
Are you considering moving your database to Azure? Concerned about complexity? Read this tip from expert Denny Cherry. Migrating to SQL Azure might be the easiest move ever.News | 12 Mar 2012
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Microsoft SQL Server 2012 pricing, licensing packed with changes
SQL Server 2012 pricing includes some significant adjustments, including a reduction in the number of editions and the change from processor- to core-based licensing.Tip
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SQL Server 2012 Guide
SQL Server 2012 Guide
- VIEW MORE ON : Installation