Last week I was reminded that opinions are split as to whether or not installing the database client tools (SSMS, Database Control, etc.) onto database servers is a good idea or not. I’ve worked at companies where the installation of such tools was discouraged. I’ve also known companies where the installation of tools is mandatory. … Read more
Are you afraid of deploying (or supporting) an instance of Windows Server Core? Are you telling others to “stay away” because of your own fears of doing something new? Then I am here to tell you that you’re doing it wrong. Last month I decided that it was time to get down and dirty with … Read more
Here’s the short version of this post: When it needs to, and not a moment before. I know what you are thinking. You are thinking “but when will it need to grow”? Great question, really, and the answer is the same. The data file will grow automatically (providing you have autogrowth enabled, of course) when … Read more
Great database performance starts with great database design. I have yet to meet someone to argue with that statement. I have, however, met many a database that has a less than optimal design. Sometimes this is due to the evolution of the database; it was built for one purpose and it is now being used … Read more
We’ve all had those moments. It’s late in the day. You are about to head home a few minutes early so you can bring your daughter to soccer practice on time. Your phone rings. The voice on the other end of the line mutters something about the server “being slow”, and needs you to fix … Read more
Have you heard about or seen the Born to Learn blog from MS Learning? Did you know that Microsoft certifications are celebrating their twentieth anniversary this year? That’s one year older than Jonathan Kehayias (blog | @SQLPoolboy)! Tomorrow at 9AM ET I am taking part in a tweetchat with MS Learning where we want to help promote the new … Read more
