Understanding SQL Server fixed server roles
I know there are fixed server roles that come with SQL Server. How do I best use them within my installations? What should I watch out for?
A Decision Tree inside out
Step by step to create a Decision Tree and how to understand the results showed by Analysis Services
Explore filtered models in SQL Server 2008
This articles explores how you can work with filtered models, a powerful new feature introduced in SQL Server 2008 that allows you build models on slices of a mining structure.
PASS Update #20
On the Friday at the end of the Summit we had a 4 hour Board meeting, welcoming new board members...
Exporting to Excel Using a CLR Stored Procedure
The inclusion of the CLR in SQL Server has been controversial, but some people have come up with great ways to take advantage of this feature. New author Anders Pedersen brings us a technique to export data from SQL Server into Excel using the CLR.
Is There a Best?
We all want the best. Whether it's a new stereo or a high availability solution for your database server. Steve Jones talks about the need for us to learn more in order to make the best decision for ourselves.
Linear Gauge Control: A Practical Use
SQL Server Reporting Services 2008 introduced several new features. One key feature was the inclusion of the Gauge Controls. I...
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?
Using Server Side Traces for Dynamic Performance Evaluation
This article describes a method of gathering and analyzing performance data using SQL Trace.
Why I Run SQLServerCentral
After the holiday, Steve Jones gives a little insight into his job, and what he likes about running SQLServerCentral.
Blogs
Redgate and Rome
By Steve Jones
I’m at the UK Redgate office today, meeting with senior leaders in all areas...
Quick Tip: Check Most DTU Expensive Queries in Azure SQL Database
Optimizing Azure SQL Database performance often begins with identifying the most resource-intensive queries. Understanding...
PowerShell Newbie – Variables
By gbargsley
This is Week 2 of PowerShell Strikes Back – a four-week May series for...
Forums
SSRS Is Dead. Here Are Your Real Options
Comments posted to this topic are about the item SSRS Is Dead. Here Are...
The Distance Metric
Comments posted to this topic are about the item The Distance Metric
The New Wave of Security Threats
Comments posted to this topic are about the item The New Wave of Security...
Question of the Day
The Distance Metric
In the new VECTOR_DISTANCE() function in SQL Server 2025, the first parameter is the distance_metric. What is this?
See possible answers