Performance Implications of Nullable Columns
To null or not to null: that is the question. The specific focus here is performance implications of NULL versus NOT NULL columns.
Starting and Stopping SQL Server Part 1
I'm sure most DBAs don't give a second thought to starting and stopping their SQL Server 2000 servers. But do you know the different ways to do this and some of the impacts and expectations you should have? Especially with hardware growing, it's not always as simple and straightforward as it should be. Andy Warren recently had to deal with some issues and starts a new series looking at the various ways of starting and stopping SQL Server.
Monitor CPU Usage of All Running Processes - Part II
Part I of this article illustrated how to monitor CPU usage of running processes on a local machine or from a remote machine. This article illustrates how to monitor the CPU usage of different running processes on different machines and collect the information in a database.
Moving Your Users with Their Databases
SQL Server 2000 databases seem to move more often than their DBAs would like. However, moving the logins and users can prove to be a bit more of a challenge than just moving the databases. New author Corey Bunch brings us his technique for making this easier.
SQL Server 2005 Learning Guide
It's been five years since Microsoft released a new DBMS, but both experts and users agree that this one was worth the wait. SQL Server 2005's enhancements and new features have made the system a much more attractive attractive option to both large and small shops. Nonetheless, upgrading to SQL Server 2005 is a serious undertaking, requiring extensive training, planning and testing. In this Learning Guide, you will find news, technical tips and expert advice to help address your questions and concerns regarding SQL Server 2005 and put you on the road to a successful upgrade.
Get Away From Confusing Code
Most time we probably think that lots of our code is confusing, but when working with data values that need or contain quotes, it can get especially confusing. Sean McCown looks at a method for making this code easier to read.
Dynamic Management Views
The dynamic management views (DMVs) in SQL Server 2005 are designed to give you a window into what's going on inside SQL Server. They can provide information on what's currently happening inside the server as well as the objects it's storing. They are designed to be used instead of system tables and the various functions provided in SQL Server 2000. This article provides an introduction to DMVs and covers a few of the basic views and functions.
Small Scale SQL Server Deployment
Everyone seems to focus on the large scale, enterprise level installations of SQL Server with not a lot of information on the little guy. To that end, new author Tim Mitchell brings us a great overview on what you should consider when setting up a SQL Server environment for a small scale setting.
Data Rich, Information Poor?
Data, information, and knowledge. They're all different concepts and we sometimes lose sight of the fact that there are differences. This is a good look at the difference.
MDX Essentials : Set Functions: The DRILLDOWNMEMBER() Function
In this article, we will begin an extended examination of the MDX surrounding drilling up and down within our Analysis Services cubes. Comprising an analytical technique by which an information consumer can maneuver between summarized ("drilling up") and detailed ("drilling down") levels of data, drilling up or down occurs along the lines of drilling paths that are defined within the physical structures of our cubes. Often specified by the cube's dimensional hierarchies, these paths can also be based upon alternative relationships that exist within or between dimensions.
Blogs
Ramblings about data communities and your contributions, no excuses
By DataOnWheels
I have been active in the data community throughout my career. I have met...
SQL Server Journey till 2025 (brief)
By Vinay Thakur
Quick Summary for Microsoft SQL Server till 2025, I am fortunate to be part...
Building Power BI Reports: Desktop vs Fabric
By James Serra
Why this comparison feels confusing If you’re a Power BI report author who’s just...
Forums
Azure SQL Database | CREATE EVENT SESSION [Blocking_Capture] ON DATABASE
Hello, Is there a way in Azure SQL Database to change the 'Blocking Process...
Having a Little Fun at SQL Server Central
Comments posted to this topic are about the item Having a Little Fun at...
Designing SQL Server Pipelines That Are Ready for AI Before You Actually Need AI
Comments posted to this topic are about the item Designing SQL Server Pipelines That...
Question of the Day
String Similarity I
On SQL Server 2025, when I run this, what is returned?
SELECT EDIT_DISTANCE_SIMILARITY('SQL Server', 'MySQL') See possible answers