External Article

SQL Server Encryption Symmetric vs. Asymmetric Keys

I need to encrypt my data within SQL Server and I plan on using the built-in encryption functionality in SQL Server 2005 and 2008. However, I'm looking at symmetric and asymmetric key algorithms and while I see information saying to use symmetric keys, I don't understand why. What's the difference between the two and why is a symmetric key algorithm preferred over the asymmetric key ones?

SQLServerCentral Editorial

Are You a Giver or a Taker?

A guest editorial from Brad McGehee today examines the way in which DBAs interact with the community. Do you take from the community, learning from others? Or do you give back more? Both are a part of many DBAs' careers. Brad talks about the importance of giving back when you can.

SQLServerCentral Editorial

How Oslo can you go?

Some developers have reacted with dismay to the recent news that Microsoft’s Oslo project is being integrated into the SQL Server platform and renamed SQL Server Modeling. The overwhelming feeling seems to be that their DSL dream is being snatched away.

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Question of the Day

The String Distance I

In SQL Server 2025, what is returned by this code:

SELECT EDIT_DISTANCE('Steve', 'Stan')
Assume preview features are enabled.

See possible answers