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Learn to apply best practices and optimize your operations.

• database management system

  A database management system (DBMS) is system software for creating and managing databases. A DBMS makes it possible for end users to create, protect, read, update and delete data in a database. Continue Reading

• Using a LEFT OUTER JOIN vs. RIGHT OUTER JOIN in SQL

  In this book excerpt, you'll learn LEFT OUTER JOIN vs. RIGHT OUTER JOIN techniques and find various examples for creating SQL queries that incorporate OUTER JOINs. 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

• Key features to create a SQL Server audit trail in databases

  SQL Server offers a set of built-in auditing tools that can help make the process of tracking logins and other database activities easier for database administrators. Continue Reading

• SQL Server performance tuning best practices for DBAs

  Tuning database performance is a complex process, but consultant Joey D'Antoni details a list of SQL Server performance tuning best practices that can make it easier. Continue Reading

• SQL Server auditing best practices: 3 key questions for DBAs

  Acing a SQL Server database audit starts with careful monitoring of how sensitive data is accessed and used so you can answer the top questions that auditors ask.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

• 5 FAQs on SQL Server containers and how to manage them

  Running SQL Server in containers creates new challenges for database administrators. The answers to these questions can guide you through some of them.Continue Reading

• Implement SQL Server security best practices in 4 easy steps

  Managing SQL Server security doesn't need to be difficult. These four best practices from Microsoft MVP and author K. Brian Kelley can help DBAs keep databases secure.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

• PASS Summit 2018 spotlights new demands on SQL Server DBAs

  This year's PASS Summit comes as SQL Server 2019 looms and the cloud becomes a bigger factor. PASS board member Tim Ford talks about key trends ahead of it.Continue Reading

• 4 strategies to beat the SQL Server 2008 support cutoff

  The looming end of SQL Server 2008 extended support should spur database teams into action. Consider these four options to extend security updates or migrate your aging SQL Server systems.Continue Reading

• SQL Server high availability best practices in the cloud

  The cloud isn't immune to system failures. You can increase database uptime and prevent data losses with these high availability best practices for SQL Server in the cloud.Continue Reading

• What the Microsoft GDPR compliance toolkit offers for SQL Server

  The set of GDPR compliance tools that Microsoft offers for SQL Server is designed to make it easier for users of the database software to adhere to the EU's new data rules.Continue Reading

• Five SQL Server maintenance steps you should take -- ASAP

  Putting off SQL Server administration tasks can lead to problems. Do these often-neglected database maintenance items to help keep your systems running smoothly.Continue Reading

• How SQL Server containers in Docker can ease database deployment

  Docker containers can make the SQL Server deployment process more efficient and flexible. Here's what they are and how to get started on creating containers for SQL Server databases.Continue Reading

• Microsoft technology refresh touches SQL Server, integration tooling

  Microsoft is at work on a delicate technology refresh affecting database tuning and architecture, as well as data integration and business intelligence.Continue Reading

• New SQL Server 2017 features give good reasons for fast upgrades

  The new SQL Server 2017 adds support for Linux and a variety of other new features that could justify upgrades to the revamped database platform, even coming so soon after the 2016 release.Continue Reading

• Automate SQL Server Docker container configuration via Dockerfiles

  As many in IT have learned the hard way, building software containers for systems like SQL Server can be tough. That's where Dockerfiles come in to help automate the process.Continue Reading

• The ins and outs of using R in SQL Server 2016 and 2017

  What does the R analytics language offer to users, and how does it fit into SQL Server 2016 and 2017? Get answers to those questions and details on Microsoft's various R technologies.Continue Reading

• Using SQL DATEPART, GETDATE, DATENAME functions

  SQL datetime functions DATEPART, GETDATE and DATENAME can retrieve the date and time or other individual parts of a value. Here's how to master these T-SQL tools.Continue Reading

• Use these commands to deploy SQL Server Docker containers

  Containerized apps are everywhere, but you can also run databases in containers. Follow these commands to customize SQL Server images in Docker containers.Continue Reading

• Conquer real-time operational analytics in SQL Server 2016

  Analytics helps improve business operations, and SQL Server 2016 users can master it -- in real time, using operational data in a transactional database.Continue Reading

• Common SQL Server 2016 licensing scenarios and how they work

  Microsoft software licensing can be tough to manage -- so let's analyze some of the different situations for licensing SQL Server 2016 that enterprises will likely face.Continue Reading

• What SQL Server for Linux says about Microsoft's future plans

  SQL Server on Linux may just be the start. After making PowerShell open source, Microsoft can build Linux versions of any of its server technologies. And it has reason to do so.Continue Reading

• Options for scaling out SQL Server applications to boost workloads

  Scaling out a database to meet the needs of a heavy processing workload can be a challenge. Here are details on the SQL Server scalability methods available to ease the process.Continue Reading

• How to get the most out of virtual SQL Server with Microsoft Hyper-V

  SQL Server is a CPU-intensive technology, which can make it tricky to run in a virtualized environment. Keep your SQL Server virtual machines running smoothly with these tips on using Hyper-V.Continue Reading

• SQL Server Installation Center steps for SQL Server 2016 upgrades

  Consultant Michael Otey provides a step-by-step guide to upgrading from SQL Server 2014 to the 2016 release using the SQL Server Installation Center and Microsoft's upgrade wizard.Continue Reading

• SQL Server 2016 licensing tips to help you steer clear of trouble

  SQL Server licensing is always complicated, and licensing for SQL Server 2016 adds new wrinkles. Expert Michael Otey provides guidance on licensing for different editions and situations.Continue Reading

• Configure SQL Server at database level with new scoping syntax

  SQL Server 2016 adds ALTER DATABASE SCOPED CONFIGURATION to its new T-SQL statements. The statement lets DBAs control database configuration at the level of a single database.Continue Reading

• How to classify the complexity of a Microsoft SQL Server upgrade

  Not all SQL Server upgrades are created equal and not all require the same level of effort. Learn when to go all out and when to conserve your energy by classifying your upgrades.Continue Reading

• SQL Server best practices for handling the post-installation blues

  The job isn't over after a successful SQL Server installation. These SQL Server best practices will help you optimize your new SQL Server installation from the start.Continue Reading

• How do the T-SQL commands TRUNCATE TABLE and DELETE differ?

  TRUNCATE TABLE and DELETE are T-SQL statements with similar functions, but that doesn't make them interchangeable. They operate differently and use different amounts of SQL Server resources.Continue Reading

• SQL Server tempdb configuration simplified in 2016 release

  With SQL Server 2016, tempdb will get enhancements to help speed up applications. Find out about the changes and learn how to properly configure tempdb in SQL Server 2016.Continue Reading

• SQL Server for Linux shows Microsoft changing with the times

  SQL Server on Linux didn't come out of nowhere. The database's roots are in Unix, and Microsoft has been making a concerted effort to be less Windows-centric overall.Continue Reading

• SQL Server 2016 T-SQL features add to DBCC CHECKDB and more

  Expert Ashish Kumar Mehta shares some of the enhancements to T-SQL ahead in SQL Server 2016. This includes a DROP IF EXISTS option and MAXDOP for DBCC CHECKDB.Continue Reading

• Database trends to watch after SQL Server 2005 end of life

  Two database industry experts discuss infrastructure and analytics trends to consider for database upgrades following the end of SQL Server 2005 extended support.Continue Reading

• Why SQL Server 2005 end of life is good news for DBAs

  Two database experts explain how to take advantage of the opportunity created by SQL Server 2005 end of life and how to build a better database.Continue Reading

• How to set up the SQL Server buffer pool extension feature

  SQL Server 2014 includes the buffer pool extension feature, which can speed up query performance. Ashish Mehta explains the benefits of the feature and how to enable and disable it.Continue Reading

• Shining a light on SQL Server storage tactics

  A good storage plan is key to proper database management no matter what system database administrators are working in. Without a sufficient SQL Server storage plan, the system may run out of space or process tasks too slowly. This handbook examines ...Continue Reading

• What's new in 2016's SQL Server AlwaysOn Availability Groups

  Microsoft has added Distributed Transaction Coordinator support, optimized log transport and other features to AlwaysOn Availability Groups in SQL Server 2016.Continue Reading

• DH2i containerization software gets Westminster, Colo., to clustering

  When Microsoft's licensing policy began costing too much, the City of Westminster used DH2i's containerization software to cluster its over 30 servers, standardize them and save money.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

• Testers give an early view of Microsoft SQL Server 2016

  Community Technology Previews show the creation process for Microsoft SQL Server 2016. SQL Server experts Denny Cherry and Joey D'Antoni share what they've learned in beta testing.Continue Reading

• SQL Server 2005 end of life is closing in: Are you ready?

  Extended support for SQL Server 2005 ends in April. That's it. It's done. If your organization isn't prepared, your data could be at risk, cautions expert Robert Sheldon.Continue Reading

• Upgrade SQL Server 2014 SP1 in eight steps

  Upgrade from SQL Server 2008 R2 to SQL Server 2014 SP1 using backup and restore. This eight-step plan takes you through everything from log backups to end-to-end testing.Continue Reading

• In-memory OLTP reborn with SQL Server 2016

  Microsoft's in-memory OLTP needed improvements, and they are here with SQL Server 2016. Learn about the enhancements to this query-boosting feature.Continue Reading

• SQL Server 2016 addresses in-memory OLTP limitations

  Once hampered by limitations, in-memory OLTP will be more robust and complete in SQL Server 2016. Learn about the improvements.Continue Reading

• An introduction to SQL Server 2016 dynamic data masking

  An expert provides a step-by-step guide for how to use dynamic data masking in SQL Server 2016 CTP2 and Azure SQL database to protect sensitive data.Continue Reading

• How to set up the new SQL Server data encryption feature

  If you're tired of decrypting data to perform operations on it, the new SQL Server data encryption feature Always Encrypted may be the answer.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

• Two ways to encrypt database backups with SQL Server

  SQL Server 2014 provides two features that let database administrators easily encrypt database backups. An expert provides two demos that show you how.Continue Reading

• SQL Server 2016 features boost cloud, security and analytics support

  In a podcast, SearchSQLServer's Jessica Sirkin discusses the noteworthy features in SQL Server 2016, reactions from early users and issues to consider in thinking about upgrading.Continue Reading

• A look at StretchDB, a new feature in SQL Server 2016

  Stretch Database, a new feature in SQL Server 2016 often called StretchDB, lets companies "stretch" their databases to store infrequently used data in the cloud while keeping heavily used data on-premises.Continue Reading

• Use Transparent Data Encryption to protect data at rest

  Transparent Data Encryption (TDE) is an effective tool for encrypting data at rest. An expert walks you through the features and future of TDE.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

• SQL Server row-level security: How to implement in Azure SQL databases

  An expert offers an example of how to institute row-level security, a preview feature introduced recently by Microsoft for Azure SQL databases.Continue Reading

• Built-in tools for monitoring and optimizing OLAP cubes

  Optimizing online analytical processing performance is critical. Fortunately, tools are available to help monitor and improve how OLAP cubes perform.Continue Reading

• Four points to consider for a SQL Server 2014 installation

  Upgrading to a SQL Server 2014 installation isn't always easy, but it has the features to make it worth your time. Here are some tips for avoiding the pitfalls along the way.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

• Built-in tools troubleshoot SQL Server memory usage

  Having enough memory is critical to SQL Server's performance. To ensure optimum SQL Server performance, you need to monitor SQL Server memory usage regularly. This article describes built-in tools that can make the job easier.Continue Reading

• How to provision a SQL Server virtual machine on Azure

  Basit Farooq provides two different methods for provisioning a SQL Server virtual machine on Windows Azure. He also explains the benefits of the Windows Azure virtual machine and how to migrate from on-premises to Windows Azure.Continue Reading

• Top four tips for virtualizing your SQL Server instance

  The increasing need for SQL Server instances is raising costs. Basit Farooq shows you how to control the costs through effective virtualization.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

• Create a user-defined server role in SQL Server 2012 with T-SQL, SSMS

  Ashish Mehta shows two ways – with T-SQL and with SSMS -- to make a user-defined server role in SQL Server 2012.Continue Reading

• Five tips to avoid a performance bottleneck or other SQL Server snares

  Basit Farooq provides five tips for SQL Server users, from avoiding a hardware performance bottleneck to dealing with database design.Continue Reading

• Using Power BI to enhance SQL Server self-service business intelligence

  SQL Server DBAs and developers should be familiar with Power BI for Office 365. Here's an overview of what it does and how to use it.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

• 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

• Maximizing the benefits of Excel add-ins: PowerPivot and Power View

  This guide explores the capabilities of the Excel plug-ins PowerPivot and Power View, offering tips for accessing valuable business intelligence data.Continue Reading

• Does SQL Server database size affect performance?

  Of course SQL Server database size matters, but there are steps DBAs and IT managers can take to mitigate growing data and maintain good performance.Continue Reading

• Defining half a dozen daily SQL Server DBA responsibilities

  Being a SQL Server DBA means you have a lot on your plate. Find out six of the most important DBA responsibilities you should be doing every day.Continue Reading

• Reporting Services architecture: Creating high-quality reports

  In this book excerpt, author and Microsoft SQL Server Reporting Services expert Brian Larson introduces features of Reporting Services.Continue Reading

• Interactive reports highlight Microsoft SQL Server Reporting Services

  Author and Reporting Services expert Brian Larson discusses features of SQL Server Reporting Services in this interview.Continue Reading

• The SQL Server 2012 Fast Track Data Warehouse reference architecture

  Microsoft has released guidelines for a hardware-software configuration that maximizes SQL Server 2012 performance. Learn about what it entails.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

• Five steps for a successful backup of a stored procedure in SQL Server

  Follow these steps to use Management Studio for SQL 2005 for a successful SQL Server stored procedure backup.Continue Reading

• SQL Server backup best practices

  Backup compression and using differential backups are just two of the important SQL Server backup best practices described in this tip.Continue Reading

• Microsoft SQL Server training: What you need to know

  Learn about the SQL Server database and how to make the most of SQL Server training in this essential guide.Continue Reading

• Nine T-SQL best practices

  Choosing the right data type and avoiding dynamic SQL are two of the nine T-SQL best practices that author Basit Farooq explains here.Continue Reading

• SQL Server views: Creating indexes and adding base data

  SQL Server views allow you to give information to users without compromising security. Find out how to create indexes on them and add base data.Continue Reading

• SQL Server views: What they are and how to create them

  SQL Server views can help DBAs provide information to users while still controlling data access. Find out how.Continue Reading

• SQL CONSTRAINT clauses: FOREIGN KEY, CHECK and DEFAULT

  In SQL Server, SQL CONSTRAINT clauses let you control values entered into a column. Learn about FOREIGN KEY, CHECK and DEFAULT constraints here.Continue Reading

• SQL CONSTRAINT clauses: PRIMARY KEY and UNIQUE

  In SQL Server, SQL CONSTRAINT clauses let you control the kinds of values that get entered into a column. Learn about two of them here.Continue Reading

• Set database constraints using SQL Server Management Studio Table Designer

  In addition to creating tables and adding columns, SQL Server Management Studio Table Designer can also set constraints.Continue Reading

• Using SQL Server Management Studio Table Designer to create a table

  Creating a table correctly in SQL Server can be pretty tricky, but using SQL Server Management Studio Table Designer makes it easier.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

• Guide to SQL Server data management and data quality

  This Essential Guide offers expert advice for improving enterprise data management and quality with SQL Server tools and services.Continue Reading

• Manage your SQL Server databases with SQL DMVs

  SQL DMVs (dynamic management views) can help simplify administration of SQL Server databases. Find out how with detailed examples.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 Server 2014 overview part 2: Availability and scalability features

  SQL Server 2014, due out at the end of this year, has availability and scalability features that highlight the database release.Continue Reading

• SQL Server 2014 overview part 1: In-memory, cloud integration features

  SQL Server 2014, due out at the end of this year, has in-memory and cloud integration features that highlight the database release.Continue Reading

• SQL Server upgrade paths: What to do before, during, after upgrading

  Planning your SQL Server upgrade is probably the most important step if you want to avoid problems.Continue Reading

• Guide to SQL Server virtualization best practices

  This guide offers discussion of the pros and cons of SQL Server virtualization and tips for successful implementation of virtualization technologies.Continue Reading

• 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.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

• Why you should think twice about Windows Azure SQL Database

  Expert Serdar Yegulalp explains why Windows Azure SQL Database may not be such a great fit for your IT shop after all. Learn what to watch out for.Continue Reading

• 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.Continue Reading