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Replication Schema Option Across Different Versions of SQL Server

My company uses replication quite extensively across SQL 2000, SQL 2005 and SQL 2008 servers. The problem with using different versions of SQL Server is that the replication options do not always behave the same way. Because of these differences we have stopped using SQL Server Management Studio and Enterprise Manager to setup replication. Also we have taken the time to look at the schema options for replication to make sure the end result is the same for all versions of SQL Server.

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State Transition Constraints

Data Validation in a database is a lot more complex than seeing if a string parameter really is an integer. A commercial world is full of complex rules for sequences of procedures, of fixed or variable lifespans, Warranties, commercial offers and bids. All this requires considerable subtlety to prevent bad data getting in, and if it does, locating and fixing the problem. Joe Celko shows how useful a State transition graph can be, and how essential it can become with the time aspect added.

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The foreclosure issues that are occurring in the US might be due to database issues at one company. Steve Jones notes that when your database is the legal system of record, it has to be accurate.

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Question of the Day

Backing Up a DMK

In SQL Server 2025, I have a database with a Database Masker Key (DMK). I want to back up this key and keep a copy offline. When do I have to open this key before running the backup?

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