Get Performance Tips Directly From SQL Server
This article describes a utility that allows you to inspect cached plans and extract information that can be useful in improving the performance of your SQL.
Stump the Wizard
Today we have an editorial from Aug 3, 2007. It is being republished as Steve is on vacation. Today Steve asks the question about which fun games you might like outside of work.
Steps to Apply a Service Pack or Patch to Mirrored SQL Server Databases
Planning on patching my SQL Servers to the latest service pack, but not sure how to complete this for a environment that is using database mirroring? In this tip, will outline the environment and then walk through the process of patching mirrored servers.
Adding Map Callout Boxes in Reporting Services
A callout text box outside the map area would help to enhance the visual effect of presenting data in reporting services.
The Cloud
This editorial was originally published on Sept 11, 2007. It is being re-run as Steve is on holiday. This is an interesting look at the cloud from 2007.
SQL View: Beyond the Basics
Joe Celko delves into the main uses of views, explains how the WITH CHECK OPTION works, and demonstrates how the INSTEAD OF trigger can be used in those cases where views cannot be updatable.
Canceling Customers
Today's editorial was originally published on Sept 4, 2007. It is being re-run as Steve is on holiday. Today Steve talks about the problems with customer service, and how some companies respond.
Simple Steps to Prepare Mirror Database for Mirroring in SQL Server
To prepare a database for mirroring, you need to perform the following steps: Script the restore of the latest full database backup, script the restore of every transaction log backup that has been made after that full database backup, copy the full database backup and transaction log backups to the mirror server, and run the restore scripts on the mirror server.
In this tip I will walk through these steps and provide sample scripts to prepare a database for mirroring.
The Cult of Mediocrity
This guest editorial from Michael Coles was originally published on Aug 1, 2007. It is being re-run as Steve is on vacation. Today Michael talks about the potential for reward for taking risk.
PASS Data Architecture VC presents Neil Hambly on Improve Data Quality & Integrity using Constraints
On Tuesday June 19th 12PM noon Central, Neil Hambly will discuss "Leveraging the power of constraints to improve both data quality and performance of your databases."
Blogs
Reality (And Limits) of Instant File Initialization for Transaction Logs in SQL Server 2022
By SQLPals
Reality (And Limits) of Instant File Initialization for Transaction Logs in SQL Server 2022 ...
Looking Back at the Redgate 2026 Company Kickoff
By Steve Jones
Last week I spent a few days in Cambridge, UK for the Redgate Company...
Using AI for Git Hooks
By Steve Jones
Recently I had someone internally ask about whether SQL Source Control supports Git Hooks....
Forums
SQL Agent job running gMSA cannot backup to NAS target
I'm running a group MSA for the database engine and SQL Agent in a...
sys.query_store_query question
All, My query is as follows: SET DATEFORMAT dmy SELECT p.query_id, DATEADD(MICROSECOND,-rs.max_duration,rs.first_execution_time) AS starttime,...
Encoding Strings
Comments posted to this topic are about the item Encoding Strings
Question of the Day
Encoding Strings
I have this code in SQL Server 2025. What is the result?
DECLARE @message VARCHAR(50) = 'Hello SQL Server 2025!'; DECLARE @encoded VARCHAR(MAX); SET @encoded = BASE64_ENCODE(@message); SELECT @encoded AS EncodedResult;See possible answers