Tips

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

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
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
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