System Tables and Catalog Views

When a new version is released or when existing software is upgraded there is always a learning curve and getting used to new ways of doing things. This article demonstrates how to use SQL Server 2005's catalog views in comparison with using system tables in SQL Server 2000.

SQL Server Job Scheduling

The scheduling system in SQL Server is quite flexible and powerful, but can be confusing at times. Peter He looks at some of the advanced options you have in automating the various jobs on your server.

You are debugging a SQL Server 2000 application...

SQL Server 2005 DB Snapshot: Imperfect Yet Useful?

SQL Server 2005 offers a new tool, Database Snapshot, which helps protect against user errors. It's a great feature, in some ways. But Ravindra Okade cautions against relying on it as an all-purpose rescue device.

Working Around 2005 Maintenance Plans

SQL Server 2005 has dramatically changed the way many maintenance plans are used. New author Aaron Ingold brings us an introductory look at Maintenance Plans in this new version.

You want to prevent SQL Server from logging...

What does this return?

select SIN(1)

Indexing Guide: The art and science of SQL Server indexing

You can improve your SQL performance by using indexes. But you have to choose the proper indexes and make sure the ones you do choose fit into your business situation. In this indexing guide, you will find answers to common indexing questions, indexing dos and don'ts, and tricks for working with the Index Tuning Wizard to improve overall system performance for SQL Server 2000 servers. This is particularly useful for servers that need a boost before they are upgraded to SQL Server 2005.

Utility Procedures

Have you ever wanted to create your own utility procedures in SQL Server? Maybe your own information schema view? SQL Server export David Poole brings us an article dicussing these very topcis and offers advice on how to proceed.

What does SET DEADLOCK_PRIORITY do?