Slipstreaming Updates lets SQL Server Setup apply a selected CU during installation with UpdateSource and avoids a separate patch pass.
Splitting Full Names Into First, Middle and Last in T-SQL
Try splitting full names with T-SQL string functions, preserve token order, and flag suffixes or compound surnames for review.
Installing sqlcmd and bcp on a Clean Machine
Installing sqlcmd and bcp on Windows starts with the current Microsoft command line utilities, then PATH and version checks.
Handing Over a Database to Another Team
Handing over a database should include a current map, tested recovery path, access transfer, open risks, and a defined support period.
SQL SERVER – INNER JOIN using LEFT JOIN statement – Performance Analysis
Can you write an INNER JOIN using LEFT JOIN? Yes, and the result is the same, but my performance analysis in AdventureWorks shows why you should not.
Seeing What Is Running Right Now
See what is running right now in SQL Server with request DMVs, statement text, plans, waits, and blocking details in one reusable query.
Sharing an Execution Plan Without Exposing Sensitive Data
Protect sensitive data when sharing an execution plan by inspecting XML values, redacting names and literals, and checking the file again.
SQL Server on Virtual Machines: Settings That Matter
SQL Server on virtual machines needs deliberate CPU, memory, NUMA, and storage settings; learn what to inspect before blaming a slow query.
Incorrect Syntax Near: When Compatibility Level Is the Cause
Incorrect syntax near means the parser met a word it did not expect, and a low compatibility level is one cause. This post reproduces the error, shows how to read and raise the level, and covers the other common causes.
SQL SERVER – Transaction and Local Variables – Swap Variables – Update All At Once Concept
Two ideas with examples: transactions have no effect on local variables, and an UPDATE applies all its changes at once, which lets you Swap Variables in one go.