Explain what is a merge join in the SQL Server engine, test ordered inputs and duplicates, and compare merge, hash, and nested loops plans.
SQL SERVER – Script Upgrade Mode on Failover – Why?
Why does SQL Server go into script upgrade mode on failover? A SQL Server 2008 R2 cluster did it after every move. Here is why and how to stop it.
The Milestone – Notes from the Field #100
The 100th episode of Notes from the Field is a true milestone. A thank you to the experts who shared real-world lessons with all of us.
Plan Guides: Fixing a Query You Cannot Change
Apply plan guides to a parameterized query you cannot edit, validate the guide, confirm plan matching, and compare Query Store hints.
SQL SERVER – Strange SQL Transaction called UpdateLoginStats
Profiler showed a SQL transaction called UpdateLoginStats before every Audit Login. The cause was the Common Criteria Compliance option I had turned on.
SQL SERVER – To Find Events Mapped to Channels in Extended Events
How exhaustive are Extended Events compared to Profiler? A DBA asked me, so here is how to find events mapped to channels in Extended Events.
SQL SERVER – Error Fix: Msg 300, VIEW SERVER STATE
Fix SQL Server Msg 300 when a user lacks VIEW SERVER STATE permission, and learn how to grant it safely without giving away too much access.