Recently, we discussed the role of the recovery model in establishing how SQL Server manages database transaction logs. But what is the SQL Server log composed of? How does the logging process work? In this post, we will dissect the SQL Server transaction log to uncover its core anatomy. First, what is the transaction log?…
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As a DBA, one of the most critical aspects of managing SQL Server is ensuring the integrity and reliability of database backups. SQL Server’s native backup functionalities offer robust tools for securing your data, particularly for databases utilizing the full recovery model. However, mixing SQL Server native backups with disk or VM snapshots can lead…
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Did you know that not configuring the MAXDOP setting in SQL Server properly could cause performance problems for your queries?
When we meet with clients for an initial SQL Server Health Check, we’re sometimes asked what a SQL Server recovery model is. Once explained, the natural follow up question often is: well, then which recovery model should we use? In this post, we will address both of these important questions. What is a SQL Server…
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Deadlocks in SQL Server are more than just a nuisance, they can be problematic, and even lead to data loss and inconsistencies.
“Why is my SQL Server slow?” Have you ever asked that question? Have your users? Unfortunately, that’s a commonly asked question. Fortunately, though, something can usually be done about it. Here are fourteen reasons a SQL Server instance could be underperforming. I’ve divided them into four broad categories. Slowness due to resource constraints Often the…
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SQL Server is good. You install it, give it some databases to manage, and let it do it’s thing. When queries come in, it figures out how to resolve them. If it needs some statistics, it creates them. If the database is running out of space, it’ll grow the data file for you. Automatically. And…
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If you’ve worked with SQL Server for very long, you’re probably familiar with the concept of indexes. Indexes can help speed up queries by allowing SQL Server to quickly locate specific data values within a table. Indexes are typically much smaller than their underlying tables so they can be searched much more efficiently. (They aren’t…
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I was on my morning walk recently when I noticed this laying on the walking path. Some call it a binky. Others a pacifier or fooler. Whatever you call it, it’s an essential piece of equipment for some infants. Without it, their world falls apart. And the calamity is contagious. They, and everyone around them,…
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In today’s world, we are constantly bombarded with a never-ending stream of urgent tasks and deadlines. It’s easy to get caught up in the daily grind and lose sight of the big picture. This is where inertia comes into play. And inertia can put your SQL Servers at risk. How urgency creates inertia Inertia is…
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