Essential Guide

This Essential Guide is a collection of articles, videos and other content selected by our editors to give you a comprehensive view of this topic.

Microsoft SQL Server training: What you need to know

Refresh basic skills and explore new trends to rev up your Microsoft SQL Server training. Whether you are a database administrator or not, the articles in this guide will point you in the right direction.

All users who interact with the SQL Server database can benefit from improving their knowledge through ongoing training. Database administrators, "reluctant" DBAs and professionals in other areas can enhance performance and productivity by revisiting the basics and exploring new capabilities of SQL Server.

Several resources are available, including SQLSaturday events. Professionals need to assess when it's time to earn certifications and which aspects of SQL Server training are necessary. Learn more about these topics as well as an insider's look at what to expect from the SQL Server 2014 release in this guide.

This essential guide offers basic information on the SQL Server database, expert advice for keeping your skill set up to date and news about the latest SQL Server technology trends.

SQL Server basics

1. Basics and benefits of SQL Server training

Database administrators, "reluctant" DBAs and non-DBAs all have the need to improve their knowledge of SQL Server. The articles in this section offer resources and advice so that all types of users can benefit from SQL Server fundamentals.

Expert insights

2. Trends, perspectives and advice on enhancing SQL Server skills

Microsoft database professionals and developers looking to update their skill sets or for some refreshers will find expert advice in the articles here. This section also explores certification information and common server performance errors to avoid.

Latest DBA essentials

3. Essentials for DBAs in 2014

The release of SQL Server 2014 brings news and updates for even the most experienced DBAs. Learn more about the latest version and technology trends that all DBAs need to know with the news stories below.