Tips

Tips

• Are we there yet? The slow road to SQL Azure

  SQL Azure offers full-blown SQL Server functionality in the cloud and could ease management and development. But whether it’s ready to fully replace SQL Server remains to be seen.  Continue Reading

• Do you need to harden SQL Server 2008 R2?

  Some say systems like R2 come so secure out of the box that traditional hardening need not apply. But when it comes to security, there’s still plenty to do beyond the defaults.  Continue Reading

• BI for SMBs: What's good for the big boys might be bad for you

  Microsoft’s business intelligence stack is just one of the options available for midsized companies looking to implement a customized (and cost-effective) BI strategy.  Continue Reading

• Exploring T-SQL metadata functions in SQL Server 2008

  Metadata functions in T-SQL can help uncover information about database names, objects and more. Learn the basics of metadata functions and how to apply them here.  Continue Reading

• Uncovering database file information with T-SQL metadata functions

  Admins can use metadata functions to reveal detailed information about SQL Server files and filegroups, including file names, IDs and file properties.  Continue Reading

• Inspecting property settings with T-SQL metadata functions

  There are plenty of other uses for SQL Server 2008 metadata functions beyond just the basics. This includes the ability to view object properties, such as columns and data types.  Continue Reading

• Using file_guid as a unique identifier for SQL Server instances

  DBAs can use the file_guid property to create a globally unique identifier for one or all of their SQL Servers by following a few simple steps.  Continue Reading

• Top seven things you don’t know about SQL Server 2008 R2

  By now, everyone knows about PowerPivot and MDS. But while high-profile features like those have gotten most of the press, other changes to R2 have fallen under the radar.  Continue Reading

• Top five things you’re doing wrong with SQL Server

  Are you hindering SQL Server without even knowing it? Check out the top mistakes DBAs often make with some quick fixes for better performance.  Continue Reading

• Getting started with Microsoft SQL Azure Database

  Get a taste of Microsoft’s SQL Azure service for the cloud, and learn how it does (and doesn’t) compare to on-premise SQL Server functionality.  Continue Reading

• SQL Server index tuning for peak performance

  Without the correct table indexes, SQL Server performance will quickly suffer. Here are a few tricks every DBA should know.  Continue Reading

• An introductory look at T-SQL system functions

  Get the basics on working with various system functions in T-SQL to help assess the finer details of your data.  Continue Reading

• Digging deeper with T-SQL system functions and language tools

  Learn how system functions can be used in T-SQL to view general session and system information along with other types of data in Microsoft SQL Server.  Continue Reading

• Three strategies for launching business intelligence in your company

  Small companies looking to get started with BI can ensure a successful implementation by following a few important tips.  Continue Reading

• Sysprep utility speeds up SQL Server 2008 R2 deployments

  A Windows staple for years, the Sysprep tool has finally made its way over to the SQL Server world with the release of R2.  Continue Reading