SQL Tips – 5 SQL Server Best Practices

In this blog post, we’ll discuss 5 SQL Server Best Practices updated to reflect modern SQL Server versions (e.g., SQL Server 2019/2022) and improved insights into database management.

1. Backup the Master Database
   Backing up the master database is critical for recovering your SQL Server instance in case of corruption or failure. The master database contains metadata about your server’s configuration, logins, and database locations. Ensure your backup scripts are up-to-date and include the master database. Regularly test these backups by restoring them to a test environment to confirm they are reliable. Modern SQL Server versions provide advanced backup options, such as encrypted backups, to enhance security.
2. Online Index Rebuilding
   If your server runs SQL Server Enterprise Edition or Azure SQL Database, leverage online index rebuilding (ONLINE = ON) for large tables to minimize downtime and avoid blocking user queries. For standard editions, consider Resumable Index Operations, introduced in SQL Server 2019, which allow interrupted rebuilds to resume later. Regular index maintenance, including reorganizing and rebuilding indexes, is crucial for maintaining performance, especially on tables with heavy read/write operations.
3. Scheduled Server Restarts
   Modern SQL Server installations often integrate with Windows Update, leading to scheduled maintenance that may require a server restart. While frequent restarts are unnecessary, ensure your server is rebooted after critical updates or changes to prevent issues with pending updates. For high-availability solutions, ensure failover mechanisms like Always On Availability Groups or database mirroring are in place to minimize downtime during restarts.
4. Monitor and Analyze Wait Statistics
   Wait statistics are an essential tool for diagnosing performance bottlenecks in SQL Server. They help identify where your system is spending time, such as waiting for CPU, I/O, or memory resources. Use Dynamic Management Views (DMVs) like sys.dm_os_wait_stats to analyze wait times and pinpoint issues. Modern SQL Server versions include Query Store, which provides detailed query performance metrics, helping you optimize queries and resource usage. For hardware upgrades, focus on components like SSDs for faster I/O or additional RAM to handle growing datasets.
5. Take a Break
   Database administration can be demanding. After ensuring your SQL Server is optimized and running smoothly, step away from your workstation, spend time with loved ones, and enjoy some fresh air. A refreshed mind is crucial for maintaining clarity and productivity.

Final Thoughts – SQL Server Best Practices

By following these best practices, you can ensure your SQL Server environment remains secure, high-performing, and efficient. If you have additional tips or ideas, feel free to share them in the comments!

Reference: Pinal Dave (https://blog.sqlauthority.com)