SQL, and Ye Shall Find
Phil Factor reflects on how hard it really is to develop a really effective database that meets the SQL Standards, and how as a result we are only beginning to realize fully the vision of relational orthogonality in databases.
Exploration of SQL Server 2016 Always Encrypted – Part 3
In this third article of the exploring SQL Server 2016 Always Encrypted series, Greg Larsen looks at the differences between an Always Encrypted column that uses an encryption type of Deterministic and those that use encryption type of Randomized.
Centrally collect replication conflicts and send an alert
Automatically capture replication conflicts and generate an automated email notification.
Who's Got a Preteen SQL Server?
This week Steve Jones wonders about the age of your instances and whether you are planning on upgrades or aware of how many out of support instances you might have.
How to read data from multiple Excel worksheets with SQL Server Integration Services
Read this tip to learn how to import data from multiple Excel worksheets into SQL Server using SSIS.
SQL Azure Performance Benchmarking
An evaluation of the SQL Azure Database Performance Levels recommended by the DTU Calculator service, and a comparison with on premise SQL Server performance.
The New Operating System
We have an operating system for how our organizations are run. Steve Jones talks about a new one that might be important for the world rules by software.
Monitoring In-Memory OLTP: What's Important?
In-Memory OLTP has evolved to be a great solution. However, a production system that uses it needs careful monitoring to avoid stress conditions becoming problems. As with many new features of SQL Server, it pays to plan a monitoring strategy to ensure that you are alerted as soon as possible when things go awry.
Queues in Databases
The idea of using a queue in a database is one that some people try to avoid, preferring to use a messaging service. However, Steve Jones notes that this isn't always necessary.
Blogs
ISACA AI Material/Exam Prep Discount (May 18 – June 30, 2026)
By Brian Kelley
If you are considering any of the ISACA AI certs like the Advanced Artificial...
A Fabric solution can be very cost effective
By ChrisJenkins
Are you currently using Microsoft Fabric or considering migrating to it? If so, there...
Track SQL Server Configuration Changes Using the Error Log
By SQLPals
Track SQL Server Configuration Changes Using the Error Log If you...
Forums
Before Using AI with Business Data, Read This
Artificial intelligence tools are quickly becoming part of daily business operations, from document analysis...
Designing SQL Server ETL Pipelines That Don't Break at Scale
Comments posted to this topic are about the item Designing SQL Server ETL Pipelines...
Detecting Deadlocks Quickly
Comments posted to this topic are about the item Detecting Deadlocks Quickly
Question of the Day
Detecting Deadlocks Quickly
In the Database Engine, when a deadlock is detected, what does the detection interval shrink to (in time)?
See possible answers