The SQL of Gaps and Islands in Sequences

Some SQL problems are intriguing because, just when good methods emerge and are accepted, other alternative solutions are discovered. The fun of exploring problems such as 'Gaps and Islands' is all the greater when we have a thorough test-harness to try out the alternative solutions.

Understanding the importance of key length with the SQL Server asymmetric encryption algorithms

K. Brian Kelly is trying to use SQL Server's built-in encryption and sees there are three different options available for an asymmetric key, corresponding to key length. What's the impact of the key length?

SSIS 2012 - Using PowerShell to Remotely Execute File System Packages

A Powershell script that allows you to execute SSIS packages using the traditional Package Deployment Model can be very useful. But what do you do when the execution isn't triggered by the same computer where the target package resides? Marcin Policht offers a solution.

Introduction to SQL Server Check Constraints

Check Constraints play a very important role in SQL Server as it allows data validation rules to be imposed at the SQL Server instance level itself instead of writing rules for each application.

SQLServerCentral.com Users Survey 2013

We want to make sure we're covering the things that are relevant to you, so we're asking for some feedback on what you use on SSC, where we need to improve, and what you'd like to see.

It should only take a few minutes, and three randomly-selected people will win a $100 Amazon gift card for their efforts.

Concatenation of Different SQL Server Data Types

TSQL provides 2 ways to concatenate data, the + sign and the new CONCAT() function. This tip will cover the differences in the two, so you can achieve the expected behavior in your code.

An Introduction to Windows Azure BLOB Storage

Azure BLOB storage is persistent Cloud data storage that serves a variety of purposes. Mike Wood shows the basics of how to use it, from start through to snapshots and metadata; both from .NET, and by using the free tool, Cerebrata Azure Explorer.

Using Microsoft Excel to Retrieve SSAS Tabular Data

Although it is well-known how to create a tabular database in PowerPivot, it is less obvious that there are several useful options for retrieving SSAS tabular data into Excel. This provides an easy way of manipulating, visualizing and analyzing the data without needing to know the details of SSAS and the tabular model.

The Big Data DBA

Many IT enterprises are starting pilot projects to implement big data solutions. This article highlights what you need to know to check if you're ready to support these efforts, and integrate them into your current architecture, processes, and standards.

Intervals and Counts - Part 1

When using SQL Server, you frequently need to work with data that represents intervals of time. For example, consider intervals representing sessions, contracts, projects, and so on. Tasks related to interval manipulation are typically quite intriguing, especially because coming up with efficient solutions isn't easy. Itzik Ben-Gan explains