For years I have found myself often needing these three pieces of information with regards to SQL Server: When was the last time the server was restarted? When was the last time the SQL instance was restarted? When was the last time the SQL Server wait stats were cleared? If the server itself is restarted, then the answer … Read more
When you create a database in SQL Server and do not specify a file location for your data and log files SQL Server will rely on the default database file locations as defined in the server properties.
A while ago I had posted a script to help find jobs that were currently running longer than expected. Since I’ve been sharing some scripts recently, I decided to verify that this script still works for finding long running jobs in SQL Agent for SQL Server 2014. Why This Script Matters Because you want the opportunity … Read more
I’ve written before about interviewing a Database Administrator (DBA) and general hiring techniques. I’ve talked about how an interview should be a conversation, not a trivia contest. I always describe the interview process as being a lot like being on a blind date. You shouldn’t be looking to stump someone during an interview. Memorization of obscure facts such … Read more
Last year I wrote an article for SQL Server Pro Magazine on things to avoid when virtualizing SQL Server. I finally got around to putting the article into slide format and posted it to Slideshare. You’re welcome. The full link to the slides is here: http://www.slideshare.net/ThomasLaRock/virtualizing-sql-server-8-things-to-avoid If you find that you have been doing one … Read more
You sit down at your desk. It’s 9:10AM and your coffee is still warm. There is a smell of bacon in the air. Suddenly your phone rings. The trading system is down. The time for quick thinking is now. Where would you begin to troubleshoot this scenario? A lot of people will reach for the biggest … Read more
