Microsoft SQL Server Administration

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

T-SQL analytic functions in SQL Server can help solve problems quickly

With the help of T-SQL analytic functions, we can quickly solve complex analytical tasks. Learn more from SQL Server expert Basit Farooq.Tip

T-SQL tricks for SQL Server 2012: T-SQL statements

In the final part of Robert Sheldon's series on features and tricks in T-SQL, learn about important T-SQL statements like LAG, LEAD and more.Tip

T-SQL tricks for SQL Server 2012: T-SQL formatting

Learn the advantages of new T-SQL formatting tools in this third part of expert Robert Sheldon's series on new T-SQL tricks for 2012.Tip

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

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

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

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

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

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

Configuring and implementing a SQL Server contained database

Learn how to implement and configure contained databases in SQL Server 2012.Tip

The ins and outs of the SQL Server 2012 contained database

Contained databases could be one of the most important features of SQL Server 2012.Tip

Step 1: Invest in good application design

To get the most from your hardware, spend your up-front resources on solid SQL server application design and an exhaustive QA process.Tutorial

SQL Server high availability: Natural enemy of virtualization?

Do SQL Server high availability and virtualization go together or not? Find out if virtualization is a good option for you in this tip by Bob Sheldon.Tip

SQL Server virtualization: When it's just not a good idea

Virtualizing SQL Server is a good idea for many IT shops, but it's not for everyone. Robert Sheldon explains when it might not be a good choice.Tip

Database index design and optimization: Some guidelines

What are the latest tips and tricks for database design and optimization? Check out this tip from Basit Farooq to learn more.Tip

xVelocity Columnstore Indexes in SQL Server 2012

Curious about how xVelocity can help with your columnstore indexes? Check out this tip from Basit Farooq to find out.Tip

Maximize SQL Server database performance by streamlining your data

Roman Rehak shows you some quick and easy ways to streamline and improve performance of your SQL Server databases.Tip

Preparing for your SQL Server scale-out

It's never too early to prepare for a SQL Server scale-out. Read this tip from Roman Rehak to learn three popular ways to scale out SQL Server.Tip

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

Configuring and implementing a SQL Server contained database

Learn how to implement and configure contained databases in SQL Server 2012.Tip

The ins and outs of the SQL Server 2012 contained database

Contained databases could be one of the most important features of SQL Server 2012.Tip

Microsoft SQL Server security best practices checklist

Authentication, complex passwords and limiting permissions are three of the top bullet points on this SQL Server security best practices checklist.Tip

SQL Server meets database application security

Make sure your SQL Server is secure by studying these general guidelines for secure database applications from SQL Server expert Roman Rehak.Tip

HIPAA compliance and SQL Server: Tricks and tools of the trade

Find out which tools help attain HIPAA compliance. Lena Weiner profiles HIPAA pro Brandon Leach, who explains the steps needed to secure SQL Server.Feature

Staying hip to HIPAA regulations: How one DBA stays compliant

How do DBAs who adhere to HIPAA regulations get their jobs done while staying compliant? We asked DBA Brandon Leach for some pointers.Feature

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Splitting SQL Server backups to multiple files

Splitting database backups helps save space and run your SQL Server backups more efficiently. Get tips for executing this from Ashish Kumar Mehta.Tip

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

SQL Server high availability: Natural enemy of virtualization?

Do SQL Server high availability and virtualization go together or not? Find out if virtualization is a good option for you in this tip by Bob Sheldon.Tip

SQL Server virtualization: When it's just not a good idea

Virtualizing SQL Server is a good idea for many IT shops, but it's not for everyone. Robert Sheldon explains when it might not be a good choice.Tip

Splitting SQL Server backups to multiple files

Splitting database backups helps save space and run your SQL Server backups more efficiently. Get tips for executing this from Ashish Kumar Mehta.Tip

Maximize SQL Server database performance by streamlining your data

Roman Rehak shows you some quick and easy ways to streamline and improve performance of your SQL Server databases.Tip

The pros and cons of virtualizing SQL Server environments

What are the pros and cons of virtualizing SQL Server environments? Basit Farooq takes you through the potential good, bad and the ugly.Tip

SQL Server Standard Edition: Why it's worth the cost

Should your IT shop consider a move to SQL Server Standard Edition? Expert Robert Sheldon explains the pros and cons you should know.Feature

Preparing for your SQL Server scale-out

It's never too early to prepare for a SQL Server scale-out. Read this tip from Roman Rehak to learn three popular ways to scale out SQL Server.Tip

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

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

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

Solving SQL VSS writer problems during backup

Backup expert Brien Posey explains how to solve common SQL VSS writer problems users can face during SQL database backups.Answer

Splitting SQL Server backups to multiple files

Splitting database backups helps save space and run your SQL Server backups more efficiently. Get tips for executing this from Ashish Kumar Mehta.Tip

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How to start and set up SQL Server Audit

Get an overview of the SQL Server Audit process, and check out the details for defining a target, setting up specifications and reading logged events.Tip

The lowdown on SQL Server auditing tools

Learn about the various components of SQL Server auditing tools such as server and database audit specifications as well as action groups.Tip

xVelocity Columnstore Indexes in SQL Server 2012

Curious about how xVelocity can help with your columnstore indexes? Check out this tip from Basit Farooq to find out.Tip

Useful SQL Server 2012 features to become familiar with

SQL Server expert Roman Rehak shares his favorite SQL Server 2012 features you might not yet know. Read this tip to learn more.Tip

Six top SQL Server 2012 management tools you should know about

Read this tip from Basit Farooq to learn which time-saving and job-improving SQL Server 2012 management tools you need to know about.Tip

Legacy file systems, away: Dealing with an unsupported file system

When the City of Aurora, Colo. heard that its legacy file system would no longer be supported, it had to act fast.Feature

MS SQL Server 2012: What new features are in store?

Is your IT shop ready for SQL Server 2012? What changes can you anticipate?Report

Microsoft SQL Server 2012: A dozen features you might have missed

With Microsoft SQL Server 2012 we're seeing some changes, new features and a few old features going away. Learn about the biggest changes here.Photo Story

When to consider SQL Server Enterprise Edition

Is SQL Server Enterprise Edition the right choice for you? Expert Robert Sheldon explains the advantages to consider when making your selection.Feature

The pros of Windows Azure SQL Database

What are the pros of choosing Windows Azure SQL Database over more traditional infrastructure? Serdar Yegulalp shares his knowledge on the subject.Feature

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

Cloaked in secrecy, Microsoft project aims to wed SQL, NoSQL databases

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

"Expert advice on database development" RSS feed is moving!

As of July 1, the "Expert advice on database development" RSS feed will be moving off of the Pheedo platform. Instead, please bookmark the following URL to make sure you continue to receive our content: http://searchsqlserver.techtarget.com/rss/Expert-advice-on-database-development.xmlUpdate

SQL Server 2014 due out in late 2013, in-memory OLTP a big feature

Microsoft announced that the next version of its database, SQL Server 2014, will have in-memory features and be generally available in late 2013.News | 03 Jun 2013

SQL Server editions: Is Microsoft SQL Server Express right for you?

Which SQL Server edition is right for your IT shop? In this article by Bob Sheldon, find out if SQL Server Express is an option.Series

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

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

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

Pros and cons of SQL Server 2012

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

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

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