Tips

Tips

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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 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

• 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 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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