SQL Server 2005 Database Options and Configuration Performance Audit Checklist

As part of your performance audit, you will need to examine each database located on each of your SQL Server instances and examine some basic database settings.

Calculate Percentiles with SQL Server 2005

Learn one of the techniques for calculating percentiles with SQL Server 2005 using the new SQL Server Common Table Expression and the latest ROW_NUMBER function.

Database File Location

Index related DMVs and DMFs - sys.dm_db_index_usage_stats

Examining statistics of indexes is useful for optimizing the performance of queries. Statistics help us determine the usage and worth of indexes - one simple method is using the index-related dynamic management view; sys.dm_db_index_usage_stats

Creating Custom Reports for SSMS

The new custom report feature of SQL Server 2005 SP2 allows you to incorporate Reporting Services report definitions (.rdl) files into SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS).

What does @@total_write in SQL Server 2005?

Mirrored backup and restore commands in SQL Server 2005

Mirrored backup commands in SQL Server 2005 work with media sets to minimize data loss. They can also restore a mirrored backup from a different media family.

Featured Blog: What happens to non-clustered indexes when the table structure is changed?

Paul Randal, former SQL Server Storage Engine lead, brings us a great explanation of how indexes are affected when you alter your schema.

Security and ownership.

Understanding the Difference between Owners and Schemas in SQL Server

SQL Server 2005 introduces the concept of schemas as opposed to object owners found in previous versions. This article will explain the differences between the two and, hopefully, clear up some of the confusion that still exists about schemas.