Evaluate

Evaluate

Weigh the pros and cons of technologies, products and projects you are considering.

• SQL Server in Azure database choices and what they offer users

  SQL Server databases can be moved to the Azure cloud in several different ways. Here's what you'll get from each of the options for migrating SQL Server to Azure. Continue Reading

• How SQL Server DevOps processes help break down data silos

  DevOps can help organizations dismantle data silos in SQL Server and other database systems -- and replace organizational silos with cross-functional teams. Continue Reading

• SQL Server vs. MySQL: Learn the differences

  MySQL and Microsoft SQL Server relational databases have their pros and cons. Weigh the differences between SQL Server and MySQL features, costs, functionality and more. Continue Reading

• Pros and cons of using SQL Server audit triggers for DBAs

  Using triggers to capture audit information in SQL Server can be instrumental in keeping track of database use and changes. But they aren't a perfect fit for all cases. Continue Reading

• 5 trends for SQL Server environments as SQL Server 2019 looms

  SQL Server is undergoing new changes, as Microsoft prepares to release the 2019 version of the database software. Other changes are also on tap for SQL Server users. Continue Reading

• SQL Server 2019 improves Linux, container support

  The SQL Server 2019 release includes new big data integration features, a collection of database engine enhancements and improved Linux and container support.Continue Reading

• The most useful new features in Microsoft SQL Server 2019

  SQL Server 2019 includes welcome new features, particularly updates to its indexing and high availability capabilities and added SQL Server on Linux functionality.Continue Reading

• How Azure SQL DW Gen2 boosts cloud data warehouse's performance

  The Gen2 version of Azure SQL Data Warehouse gives Microsoft's cloud data warehouse a shot in the arm on performance, making it more competitive with rival technologies.Continue Reading

• A quick tutorial on SQL Server maintenance plans

  SQL Server maintenance plans get a bad rap, but for DBAs who need a simple way to maintain databases, Microsoft's built-in tools are a good place to start.Continue Reading

• Common Data Service for Analytics eases Power BI integration

  Integrating data into Power BI for analysis can be a challenge, but Microsoft's Common Data Service for Analytics technology is designed to simplify the process for users.Continue Reading

• Power BI Report Server adds new Power BI reporting options

  Updates to Power BI Report Server expand the on-premises platform's reporting functionality and increase the number of data sources users can connect to when building Power BI reports.Continue Reading

• Microsoft Cosmos DB takes Azure databases to a higher level

  Azure Cosmos DB brings a new element to the database lineup of Microsoft's cloud platform, offering multiple data models and a scalable environment for distributed applications.Continue Reading

• Five SQL Server database trends to be prepared for in 2018

  Here's a list of notable trends related to SQL Server that IT teams should be ready for over the next 12 months. Among them: increased use of the cloud, AI, Linux and containers.Continue Reading

• Dissect the SQL Server on Linux high availability features

  SQL Server 2017 on Linux gives IT shops greater flexibility, but there are some limitations and changes to the way high availability and failover are performed on Linux vs. Windows.Continue Reading

• How to use a SQL Server graph database to map data relationships

  Here are the basics you need to know to use the graph database features added in SQL Server 2017 to represent the relationships between different data elements in a graph structure.Continue Reading

• How to choose the right SQL Server on Azure deployment option

  There are two options for deploying SQL Server on the Azure cloud. Here's a look at how they differ to help you choose between using Azure SQL Database and running SQL Server on an Azure VM.Continue Reading

• Expect big data doings at upcoming Microsoft Ignite conference

  Ignite 2017 and the Microsoft data portfolio are the topics of this edition of the Talking Data podcast. On tap is a closer look at Azure Cosmos DB.Continue Reading

• A closer look at Python-SQL Server 2017 integration

  Looking to take advantage of SQL Server 2017's support for Python? Here's what you need to know to get started on using the analytics programming language with Microsoft's database.Continue Reading

• Notre Dame seeks SQL Server performance baseline for run to cloud

  Establishing SQL Server performance baselines is a crucial first step for cloud migrations, says a University of Notre Dame DBA, who is using database monitoring software to do so.Continue Reading

• SQL Server 2016 Integration Services boosted by Linux support

  As SQL Server changes, so does Integration Services. See the latest SSIS updates, such as added Linux support and an Upgrade Wizard for SQL Server 2016.Continue Reading

• Capitalize on mobility in Microsoft SQL Server Reporting Services 2016

  SQL Server Reporting Services has gotten a face-lift over the past few years. Read on to take advantage of what's new.Continue Reading

• What do new SQL Server Standard Edition features mean for IT?

  Which SQL Server edition is right for you? After Microsoft upgraded the Standard Edition with features from the Enterprise one, a lower cost choice might be possible in some cases.Continue Reading

• SQL Server machine learning goes full throttle on operational data

  Artificial intelligence is a hot topic in IT, and Microsoft has made strides to synchronize SQL Server with machine learning tools for use in analyzing operational data pipelines.Continue Reading

• Four trends that will impact SQL Server DBAs in 2017

  Flash storage adoption, cloud computing's growth, Linux's increased importance and broader big data integration are a few trends that stand to affect SQL Server users this year.Continue Reading

• SQL Server on Linux signals Microsoft's changing development landscape

  Expert Joey D'Antoni explains what SQL Server on Linux and the addition of some Enterprise Edition features to the database's Standard Edition say about the changing face of Microsoft.Continue Reading

• Four free SQL Server tools every DBA can use

  Various performance issues can arise in the day-to-day grind of managing databases. We've rounded up four free SQL Server tools that can help make DBAs lives a little bit easier.Continue Reading

• What you need to know for upgrades to SQL Server 2016 version

  Before you upgrade to SQL Server 2016, review the hardware and software requirements and the supported upgrade paths to help make sure your deployment of the database goes smoothly.Continue Reading

• SQL Server SSD technology becoming a solid storage choice

  With recent improvements in solid-state drive technology, it's time to consider SSD devices for SQL Server storage uses. SSDs can address I/O performance problems, but wear is a worry.Continue Reading

• What is the benefit to Microsoft SQL Server Express on Azure?

  Microsoft recently announced that it has added Microsoft SQL Server Express to Azure. Expert Robert Sheldon shares what he sees as the benefits and pitfalls.Continue Reading

• SQL Server 2014 features enable hybrid cloud scenarios

  Microsoft continues to improve integration between on-premises data centers with Microsoft Azure. An expert looks at SQL Server 2014 features that enable hybrid cloud scenarios.Continue Reading

• Microsoft SQL Server 2016: Previews show promise for next year

  Microsoft SQL Server 2016 will be released next year. But in 2015, we've already had a glimpse into improved in-memory OLTP, security features, analytics and Stretch Database.Continue Reading

• How to get started with PolyBase in SQL Server 2016

  With PolyBase, when you use SQL Server 2016 as your data source, you have easy access to Hadoop and Azure Blob Storage data from whatever environment you're working in.Continue Reading

• Introducing DBCC CHECKDB for Analysis Services 2016

  DBCC CHECKDB, a long-awaited feature for SQL Server Analysis Services, provides the ability to perform database consistency checks against tabular and multidimensional databases.Continue Reading

• Comparing memory-optimized tables and disk-based tables

  In all tests performed by expert Basit Farooq, memory-optimized tables outperformed disk-based tables by running faster and generating less disk I/O.Continue Reading

• Understanding the Microsoft Sync Framework

  An expert explains the Microsoft Sync Framework, a platform for synchronizing heterogeneous data distributed across applications, services and devices.Continue Reading

• SQL Server gets its first container management software

  DH2i's DxEnterprise is the first application container management software designed for SQL Server. Containerization boosts mobility and reduces downtimes.Continue Reading

• Limited public preview opens for Azure SQL Data Warehouse

  Microsoft opened the preview of Azure SQL Data Warehouse, a petabyte-scale, distributed columnar data warehouse service with massively parallel processing.Continue Reading

• Top three third-party SQL Server security auditing tools

  For most companies, SQL Server's security auditing tools aren't always enough to meet regulation requirements. The answer is third-party products.Continue Reading

• SQL Server 2016 preview shows off new features, improvements

  Experts discuss the public preview of SQL Server 2016 and the best new features as early adopters ready themselves to put SQL Server 2016 into production.Continue Reading

• How DH2i container management software can lower licensing fees

  Asante and Eversheds both cut SQL Server licensing costs using the new DH2i container management software, DxEnterprise. DH2i plans to compete with Microsoft.Continue Reading

• Introducing row-level security in Azure SQL databases

  Row-level security, a new feature for Azure SQL databases, helps Microsoft database platforms get to the same level as Oracle and DB2.Continue Reading

• Vendors introduce three new SQL Server appliances

  If SQL Server appliances are on your radar, you have options, but the price tag is high. Do your homework before buying. Here are the current offerings.Continue Reading

• Seven reasons to upgrade to SQL Server 2012

  Support for early versions of SQL Server has ended. But rather than upgrade to SQL Server 2014, companies are turning to SQL Server 2012. Here is why.Continue Reading

• SQL Server database recovery tool retrieves by the table

  Kroll Ontrack's new SQL Server database recovery tool was developed from customer feedback. It recovers selected tables instead of the whole database.Continue Reading

• SIOS SANLess cluster helps keep Epicure websites up and running

  Direct-sales food distributor Epicure deployed a new server cluster to keep its websites from being overwhelmed -- and saved money on SQL Server and storage in the process.Continue Reading

• Scaling out or scaling up with Microsoft SSRS

  Basit Farooq explains the pros and cons of scaling out and scaling up when increasing the workload on the SQL Server Reporting Services (SSRS).Continue Reading

• Pricing out the new Windows Azure SQL Database

  SQL Database -- formerly known as SQL Azure -- is the relational database product under the umbrella of Microsoft Azure, the company’s cloud infrastructure platform. Until recently, Microsoft offered two service plans: Web and Business. Both options...Continue Reading

• SQL Azure automatic backup keeps it 'business as usual'

  Robert Sheldon explains the business continuity features added to SQL Azure, including automatic backup, self-service restore, manual copy, and export and geo-replication. These features are meant to keep the data available, even when the system ...Continue Reading

• New Azure SQL subscription model has performance levels

  Robert Sheldon explains the new subscription model for Azure SQL Database coming out in 2015. The new model will have three service tiers -- basic, standard and premium. It will also have performance levels for each tier.Continue Reading

• The dark side of Microsoft SQL Server Express

  Don Jones explains why Microsoft SQL Server Express can be more dangerous than you'd think and why it might be worth it to invest in the paid edition.Continue Reading

• Guide to SQL business intelligence, analytics and data visualization

  This Essential Guide offers a closer look at SQL Server business intelligence features and tools that enable users to view, share and analyze data.Continue Reading

• SQL Server 2014 columnstore index: the good, the bad and the clustered

  SQL Server 2014 adds options for the clustered and the nonclustered columnstore index. Robert Sheldon shares the good and the bad.Continue Reading

• Developments in SQL Server BI point to focus on self-service, users

  Today, business analytics is largely focused on self-service software and pushing business intelligence capabilities down to the end user. In this three-part handbook, we drill down on the trends and technologies serving to further the scope of SQL ...Continue Reading

• Managing data with Enterprise Integration Management and SQL Server

  Microsoft tools for SQL Server can help build a comprehensive enterprise integration management platform.Continue Reading

• Some new Windows Azure integration features in SQL Server 2014

  Microsoft is all about the cloud SQL Server 2014, especially if it's Microsoft's own cloud. That's why there is built-in Azure integration.Continue Reading

• SQL Server 2012 features: Weighing the benefits, limitations

  This guide explores the popular new features of SQL Server 2012 and offers tips for deciding if it's right for your organization.Continue Reading

• Five Windows Azure alternatives for SQL Server

  Just because you're an SQL Server shop doesn't mean you can't explore the cloud. Check out these five Azure alternatives to see what's out there.Continue Reading

• SQL Server encryption features in SQL Server 2014

  Learn about SQL Server encryption features and enhancements in SQL 14, including Transparent Data Encryption and encrypting backups.Continue Reading

• Five SQL Server 2012 business intelligence features

  The BI Semantic Model and Data Quality Services: These are two of the five SQL Server 2012 BI features that highlight this database release.Continue Reading

• Digging through SQL Server OLAP storage models

  Learn how to distinguish among the three SQL Server OLAP storage models and decide which one is best in different use cases.Continue Reading

• Eight key SQL Server 2014 features

  In-memory OLTP and columnar storage are just two of the eight key SQL Server 2014 features, according to this tip.Continue Reading

• Get going with Microsoft Power View and SharePoint

  In this book excerpt, the authors explain Microsoft SQL Server Analysis Services and how to get started with Power View.Continue Reading

• Five third-party SQL Server schema comparison tools

  Over the years, many third-party schema comparison tools have popped up to support SQL Server.Continue Reading

• Five third-party SQL Server schema comparison tools

  Schema comparison tools let you compare object definitions in two databases. Read why they're important, and learn about five popular ones out there.Continue Reading

• Five third-party schema comparison tools

  Continue Reading

• Six SQL Server management tools you can't live without

  Expert Ashish Kumar Mehta lists six important SQL Server management tools, including BIDS, SSMS and SSDT.Continue Reading

• SQL 2014 features: Partitioned indexes and memory-optimized tables

  In this second of a two-part series on SQL 2014 features, Bob Sheldon dives into partitioned indexes and memory-optimized tables.Continue Reading

• SQL 2014 features: Extended buffer pool and columnar indexes

  Two major SQL Server 2014 features are its ability to extend the buffer pool and its implementing of clustered columnar indexes for improved querying.Continue Reading

• Evolution of Windows Azure SQL Database

  Learn about latest developments in SQL Azure technology, exploring its benefits and drawbacks in this comprehensive guide.Continue Reading

• 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.Continue Reading

• 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.Continue Reading

• 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.Continue Reading

• 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.Continue Reading

• More new features for SSIS 2012: Connection managers and more

  In the second part of this series on new features, by Robert Sheldon, learn more ways the latest version of SSIS will make BI development simpler.Continue Reading

• Great new SSIS features for BI developers

  SQL Server 2012 has many features, but a few make SSIS much easier for BI developers. Check out this tip by expert Robert Sheldon to learn more.Continue Reading

• 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.Continue Reading

• 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.Continue Reading

• 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.Continue Reading

• New to SQL Server PDW? First, tinker with client tools

  Stepping into the SQL Server PDW environment means learning a whole new set of client tools. Learn about each as you take on Microsoft’s Parallel Data Warehouse.Continue Reading

• Top five features in SQL Server Developer Tools

  SQL Server Developer Tools, also known as Project Juneau, made its debut in this summer’s Denali preview. Read up on five SSDT features.Continue Reading

• Third-party tool for SQL Server outshines IntelliSense in SSMS

  IntelliSense in SSMS is Microsoft’s answer to developer pleas. But there is competition from a third-party tool for SQL Server -- SQL Prompt.Continue Reading

• Moving beyond SSIS: 5 third-party SQL Server tools for ETL

  Sometimes an organizations data management needs surpass what SQL Server Integration Services can offer. Read on for an ETL tools comparison and find out which tool is best for your organization.Continue Reading

• 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.Continue Reading

• Pros and cons of the DACPAC with SQL Server 2008 R2

  Data-tier applications are among SQL Server 2008 R2’s most talked-about new features, though version-one limitations could minimize their impact in the short term.Continue Reading

• Open source tool simplifies database synchronization for SQL Server

  A free tool for Microsoft SQL Server could help take the time out of syncing up public and development databases.Continue Reading

• The best new features in SQL Server 2008

  Some new SQL Server 2008 features could make an upgrade more appealing. Get the details on the enhanced data engine, Reporting Services improvements and more.Continue Reading

• SQL injection tools for automated testing

  Manual testing for SQL injection requires a lot of effort with little guarantee that you'll find every vulnerability. Fortunately, there is a better way.Continue Reading

• Password cracking tools for SQL Server

  When performing SQL Server penetration tests and security audits, there is one probe you must not miss: password cracking. Check out which tools – some free – to use.Continue Reading

• DBConvert for MS SQL & PostgreSQL

  DBConvert for MS SQL & PostgreSQL allows for data conversion from SQL Server to PostgreSQL and from PostgreSQL to SQL Server databases.Continue Reading

• DBSync for MS SQL & MySQL

  DBSync for MS SQL & MySQL performs SQL-to-MySQL and MySQL-to-SQL database conversion and synchronization.Continue Reading

• DBSync for MS Access & MS SQL

  DBSync for MS Access & MS SQL performs Microsoft Access to SQL Server and SQL Server to Microsoft Access database conversions and synchronization.Continue Reading

• SQL Sentry Performance Advisor

  SQL Sentry Performance Advisor is a performance monitoring and tuning solution that offers information on SQL Server and Windows performance.Continue Reading

• Spotlight on SQL Server Xpert Edition

  Spotlight on SQL Server Xpert Edition detects and diagnoses performance issues across your SQL Server environment by providing an overview of enterprise performanceContinue Reading

• New data profiling tools in SQL Server 2008

  New data-profiling tools native to SQL Server 2008 Integration Services such as the Data Profiling task and the Data Profiler Viewer help manage a business intelligence strategy up front.Continue Reading

• A guide to basic new features in SQL Server Management Studio 2008, part 1

  SQL Server Management Studio 2008 comes packed with the new features that have been on your wish list, including syntax help, word completion and a list of stored procedure parameters.Continue Reading

• SQL Server virtualization pros and cons: Weigh the performance impact

  Virtual machines in the SQL Server world can save money and power. But what's the performance impact on I/O, RAM, memory and your Windows operating system? To help you decide whether virtualization is right for your system, SQL Server MVP Denny ...Continue Reading

• SQL Server 2008 backup compression pros and cons

  Backup compression is a shiny new feature in SQL Server 2008, but what are the drawbacks? Here, SQL Server expert Roman Rehak examines some tradeoffs, such as increased CPU processing time.Continue Reading

• How insiders hack SQL databases with free tools and a little luck

  It only takes a few free security tools, a little luck and a malicious intent to put your SQL Server database at risk. IT security specialist Kevin Beaver walks you through a real-world scenario of how a network insider can hack seemingly harmless ...Continue Reading

• Tool to synchronize two SQL Server databases

  Discover a tool that synchronizes two SQL Server databases allowing changes to one SQL Server database to update on the other.Continue Reading

• Five sqlcmd features to automate SQL Server database tasks

  Make your life easier with the sqlcmd tool in SQL Server 2005 that automates administration and maintenance via scripting. In this tip, you'll get five useful features and examples to execute sqlcmd commands, such as for utilizing and populating ...Continue Reading