READ UNCOMMITTED changes session read isolation without adding NOLOCK to every table. A workshop procedure made the distinction useful.
SQL SERVER- High CPU and Transaction Type WorkFileGroup_fake_worktable and Workfile
Workfile and WorkFileGroup_fake_worktable were clues in a customer high-CPU investigation. I correlated them with queries and plan evidence.
Decoding wait_resource: From a KEY or PAGE Lock to the Table
Decode wait_resource for blocked requests, map KEY and PAGE locks to objects, and keep undocumented row-hash checks on test copies.
SQL SERVER – How to Turn On / Enable Instant File Initialization?
To Enable Instant File Initialization for data files, I check the Windows service identity and volume-maintenance privilege. Eligibility still matters.
ROWLOCK Hint and Slow Performance in SQL Server
A ROWLOCK hint makes SQL Server lock each row it reads instead of whole pages. This post counts the locks of the same scan with and without the hint, times both versions, shows how an open transaction on a busy server changes the result, and explains how ROWLOCK differs from UPDLOCK.
Blind Index: Searching an Encrypted Column Without Decrypting
Encrypted emails cannot be searched, so store a keyed digest beside them. A hands-on demo of how it works, what it leaks and how rotation hurts.
Practical Real World Performance Tuning – Fun and Reviews
Part two of my behind the scenes story of Practical Real World Performance Tuning: the fun we had in class and the reviews our students shared.