Problem solve
Get help with specific problems with your technologies, process and projects.
Problem solve
Get help with specific problems with your technologies, process and projects.
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
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
How to resolve and avoid deadlocks in SQL Server databases
Deadlocks are a real hindrance to SQL Server users, but database administrators can avoid them by taking steps to limit them and stop them from recurring. Continue Reading
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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
DATEADD and DATEDIFF SQL functions for datetime values
DATEADD and DATEDIFF SQL functions allow you to easily perform calculations, like adding a time interval from a datetime value. Here's how to use those functions for that and more. Continue Reading
Migrating SQL Server to Microsoft Azure SQL Database as a service
Microsoft Azure SQL Database compatibility problems disappeared in V12, clearing the path for a SQL database migration to the cloud. Here's how to make the move.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
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
Troubleshoot SQL Server database performance with T-SQL
Basit Farooq provides eight tips for optimizing T-SQL code to prevent SQL Server database performance bottlenecks and to tune database applications.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
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The top three SQL Server third-party tools
Basit Farooq presents his top three SQL Server third-party tools for identifying and resolving SQL Server bottlenecks.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
What to consider when deploying In-memory OLTP in SQL Server 2014
In this expert answer, Michael Steineke from Edgenet talks about what to consider when deploying In-memory OLTP in SQL Server 2014.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
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
Dive deep into SQL Server 2014 in-memory OLTP
Probably the biggest feature of the upcoming release, SQL Server 2014 in-memory OLTP has benefits that DBAs should know about. Learn how to set it up.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
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
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
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
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
SQL PIVOT helps merge results into a single row
SQL Server expert Denny Cherry shows how code can be used to the same effect as a SQL PIVOT statement.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
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
How to work around Azure database migration limitations
Performing a successful Azure database migration is no easy task. There are plenty of limitations and missing features, and this is how you make do.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
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 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
Configuring and implementing a SQL Server contained database
Learn how to implement and configure contained databases in SQL Server 2012.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
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.Continue Reading
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.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
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.Continue Reading
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.Continue Reading
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.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
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.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
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.Continue Reading
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.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
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.Continue Reading
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.Continue Reading
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.Continue Reading
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.Continue Reading
Eight ways that SQL Server developers hurt performance
Application developers who access SQL Server can affect server performance without knowing it. Here are eight things SQL Server developers often do wrong.Continue Reading
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.Continue Reading
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.Continue Reading
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.Continue Reading
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.Continue Reading
Further SSIS tips: Parameters and undoing operations
Learn more new tips and tricks for SSIS from expert Robert Sheldon. Check out the last of a three-part series on changes to this important tool.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
Different ways to audit SQL Server security
Strong SQL Server security has become a more important part of a robust defense. But what are your options for security auditing?Continue Reading
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.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
Six SQL bulk copy command gotchas
BCP is a great native tool, but it does have a few limitations. SQL Server expert Serdar Yegulalp discusses some problems and how to avoid them.Continue Reading
SQL Server Power View makes BI reporting look simple
SQL Server 2012’s business intelligence tool puts report building in users’ hands. Read this tip from expert Robert Sheldon to how to get started.Continue Reading
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.Continue Reading
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.Continue Reading
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.Continue Reading
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?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
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.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
Speed up execution times in Microsoft SQL Azure
Compare the time cost of database calls to SQL Azure versus calls to a local server and get recommendations for improving the speed of database calls to SQL Azure.Continue Reading
Microsoft SQL Server 2012 pricing, licensing packed with changes
SQL Server 2012 pricing includes some significant adjustments, including a reduction in the number of editions and the change from processor- to core-based licensing.Continue Reading
SQL Server database capacity planning: A head-on approach
IT administrators often don’t give a lot of thought to SQL Server database capacity planning -- until the database fills up. But managing database capacity now can help cure headaches later.Continue Reading
When up isn’t enough: Techniques for scaling SQL Server out
Scaling SQL Server out is not easy; that’s why most businesses choose to scale up their databases instead. But some applications give you no choice: You’ve got to look at options for scaling out.Continue Reading
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.Continue Reading
Three easy ways to improve SQL Server performance
A sluggish database does no one any good. Consultant Don Jones offers tips to improve SQL Server performance.Continue Reading
Microsoft SSIS basics: Tying it all together
SQL Server Integration Services (SSIS) is designed to make data integration between disparate systems easy. SQL Server expert Don Jones covers the Microsoft SSIS basics.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
With SQL Server data warehouse tables, think big
Along with the popularity of SQL Server data warehouses come huge data warehouse tables. To handle them, database administrators may need to tweak the traditional approach.Continue Reading
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.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
Parallel Data Warehouse has speed, space, special requirements
Microsoft Parallel Data Warehouse is not like other software. The appliance for SQL Server 2008 R2 allows for mammoth workloads; it also has some specific data loading procedures.Continue Reading
Five mistakes companies make in SQL Server upgrades
Think your SQL Server upgrade will be a cinch? Well, it can, but thing can -- and do -- go wrong. Learn what not to do when moving from one SQL Server version to another.Continue Reading
SSRS best practices for a trouble-free deployment
Running SQL Server Reporting Services requires skills ranging from administration to analytical. Get advice on how to keep deployments in top shape.Continue Reading
Getting the most out of SQL Server information schema views
SQL Server information schema views let you access metadata about database objects such tables and columns. Learn how you can access the views to retrieve relevant information.Continue Reading
How to execute scheduled tasks in SQL Azure: Use SSIS packages
Without SQL Agent in SQL Azure, it can be challenging to execute schedules tasks. But it’s not impossible. Learn how using SSIS packages to simulate SQL Agent functionality can help.Continue Reading
Sizing up SQL Azure limitations: There are workarounds
Considering Microsoft’s cloud database? There several SQL Azure limitations, especially on database size and how many databases you can have, but there are ways of handling them.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
Bedeviled by SQL Server lock escalation? Trace flags can help
SQL Server lock escalation can save on memory when working with a table strewn with locks, but it also can lead to blocking. Use SQL Server trace flags to disable lock escalation.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
Top 5 buying criteria for packaged SQL Server BI systems
Small and medium-sized businesses have a lot to choose from when looking for a BI system, so shopping around for the right one is a must. Find out what SMBs need to keep in mind when searching for a SQL Server BI system.Continue Reading
Virtualizing SQL Server: Myth or reality?
With benefits such as cost savings and high-availability options, SQL Server virtualization is taking the IT world by storm. Here are a few things to keep in mind.Continue Reading