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T-SQL tricks for SQL Server 2012: T-SQL functions
In this second in a series of tips about new T-SQL features in SQL Server 2012, expert Robert Sheldon explores more tricks for getting the most out of T-SQL functions.Tip
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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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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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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
- VIEW MORE ON : T-SQL
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Index tuning for the reluctant DBA
Many reluctant DBAs find index tuning intimidating. Read this article by Don Jones to learn why index tuning is a must for your SQL Server shop.Tip
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database mirroring
Database mirroring is the maintenance of redundant copies of a database to ensure continuous data availability and minimize or avoid downtime that might otherwise result from data corruption or loss, or when the operation of a network is partially compromised.Definition
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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
- VIEW MORE ON : Performance Tuning
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Basic SQL Server security best practices
Read this article by Ashish Kumar Mehta to learn the basic SQL Server security best practices everyone should know -- but many forget.Feature
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Essential SQL Server security tools
Read this tip where writer Ashish Kumar Mehta shares his all-time favorite native and third-party SQL Server security tools.Series
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SQL Server 2012 security: Changes for the newest version
SQL Server 2012 is here, and many DBAs wonder what kinds of changes to expect in SQL Server security. Basit Farooq explains what we can anticipate.Series
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Why SQL Server security matters: A case study
With a DBA's multiple responsibilities, it's easy to neglect SQL Server security. This case study by Basit Farooq explains why this is so dangerous.Series
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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
- 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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More predictions on 2013 SQL Server trends from Denny Cherry
What can you expect from Microsoft in 2013? Find out which SQL Server trends can be anticipated this year from SQL Server expert Denny Cherry.Feature
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Denny Cherry's 2013 predictions (and wishes) for SQL Server trends
What new developments will SQL Server users see in 2013? Expert Denny Cherry predicts SQL Server trends to expect this year.Feature
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Index tuning for the reluctant DBA
Many reluctant DBAs find index tuning intimidating. Read this article by Don Jones to learn why index tuning is a must for your SQL Server shop.Tip
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Virtualizing SQL Server? What to keep in mind
Thinking about virtualizing SQL Server? Roman Rehak gives you a rundown about what you should keep in mind when planning your migration.Tip
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In-memory SQL Server: The implications of integration
How is in-memory SQL Server different from SQL Server with a bunch of RAM? SQL Server guru Serdar Yegulalp explains what to know before you install.Tip
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database mirroring
Database mirroring is the maintenance of redundant copies of a database to ensure continuous data availability and minimize or avoid downtime that might otherwise result from data corruption or loss, or when the operation of a network is partially compromised.Definition
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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
- 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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More predictions on 2013 SQL Server trends from Denny Cherry
What can you expect from Microsoft in 2013? Find out which SQL Server trends can be anticipated this year from SQL Server expert Denny Cherry.Feature
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Denny Cherry's 2013 predictions (and wishes) for SQL Server trends
What new developments will SQL Server users see in 2013? Expert Denny Cherry predicts SQL Server trends to expect this year.Feature
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SQL Server 2012 security: Changes for the newest version
SQL Server 2012 is here, and many DBAs wonder what kinds of changes to expect in SQL Server security. Basit Farooq explains what we can anticipate.Series
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BI as a Service: Tips for scaling your BI system...in human terms
BI systems are great...if you can get your employees to use them. How do you make your system scalable? Read this tip from Don Jones to find out.Tip
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SQL Server 2012
Microsoft SQL Server 2012 is a relational database management system (RDBMS) designed for the enterprise environment. Like its predecessors, SQL Server 2012 comprises a set of programming extensions to enhance the Structured Query Language (SQL), a standard interactive and programming language for getting information from and updating a database.Definition
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Scale out with Windows Azure SQL Database
Scaling out Azure SQL doesn't have to be a painful process. Microsoft Windows expert Bob Sheldon shows you an easier way with Azure SQL federations.Tip
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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
- VIEW MORE ON : Tools and Utilities
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Scale out with Windows Azure SQL Database
Scaling out Azure SQL doesn't have to be a painful process. Microsoft Windows expert Bob Sheldon shows you an easier way with Azure SQL federations.Tip
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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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SQL, NoSQL technologies coming together in new Microsoft project
Everyone knows SQL and NoSQL technologies don't co-exist well. But can they? Check out Issue 3 of SQL Server Insider E-Zine to find out about the mysterious Microsoft project that aims to wed these two database types. Then, delve into the business intelligence (BI) features in SQL Server 2012, including reporting, analytics and data quality.E-Zine
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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
- VIEW MORE ON : Interoperability
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In-memory SQL Server: The implications of integration
How is in-memory SQL Server different from SQL Server with a bunch of RAM? SQL Server guru Serdar Yegulalp explains what to know before you install.Tip
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SQL Server 2012
Microsoft SQL Server 2012 is a relational database management system (RDBMS) designed for the enterprise environment. Like its predecessors, SQL Server 2012 comprises a set of programming extensions to enhance the Structured Query Language (SQL), a standard interactive and programming language for getting information from and updating a database.Definition
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Excerpt: Planning a Microsoft SQL Server install
For many DBAs, a SQL Server installation can be tough. Read this excerpt from Dusan Petkovic's book on Microsoft SQL Server 2012.Excerpt
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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
- VIEW MORE ON : Installation