External Article

Evaluating the Randomness of SQL Server Random Number Functions

Microsoft provides T-SQL developers with three functions (rand, newid, and crypt_gen_random) for generating random numbers. Each of these functions is effective at returning random values, but feature sets associated with each function make them best suited to different use cases. This tip’s Solution section presents an overview of common use cases for random numbers in SQL Server along with references to learn more about random numbers in SQL Server.

SQLServerCentral Editorial

How Do You Know You Are Right?

I spend a significant amount of time working alone at my desk. I write articles, edit them, and share my opinions. However, I am constantly concerned about being wrong. How can I overcome this feeling? If this were a live session, I would eagerly listen to the answers to this question. Since it isn't, I […]

External Article

Exploring the SQL Server CHOOSE Function

I preface a lot of what I write with whether or not it is for a “practical” use. One of the Simple Talk authors used this function in a forthcoming article. and I realized I hadn’t heard of it before (or I forgot about it… which is not completely unlikely.) The practical use was to generate some data and have at least a little variety to the values.

Blogs

SQL Saturday NYC Recap 2025

By

My first time at SQL Saturday New York City was an absolute blast! Thank...

SSMS 21

By

Just a quick one this morning. I’m on the road and haven’t worked up...

Why Data Silos Hurt Your Business Performance

By

Businesses rely on data for decision-making and strategy, but data silos hinder productivity. These...

Read the latest Blogs

Forums

SSPI handshake failed error code 0x80090311

By jamesstirling01

Hi, I have a workstation with SQL Express 2019 installed and I have a...

Need query help - MAX record

By jmerlau

Hello - I have attached a Word document here with details about my issue....

Need query help - MAX record

By jmerlau

I am having trouble writing linking the MAX query that I created back to...

Visit the forum

Question of the Day

Removing Log Shipping

If I want to delete a log shipping secondary server where only one database is used to restore the logs, what should I do?

See possible answers