Tips

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
Four trends that will impact SQL Server DBAs in 2017

Flash storage adoption, cloud computing's growth, Linux's increased importance and broader big data integration are a few trends that stand to affect SQL Server users this year. 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

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