To find cross-database transactions, search the code for references to other databases, watch a live transaction with a DMV, or read special records in the transaction log. This post tests all three on two demo databases. It also shows why a popular log script flags a brand new database.
SQL SERVER – Split Comma Separated List Without Using a Function
I have shown how to build a comma separated list many times. This time a reader wanted the reverse: split a comma separated list into rows without a function.
Dirty Pages in Memory: Count Them Before and After CHECKPOINT
Dirty pages in memory are changed data pages that SQL Server has not yet written to disk. This post counts them with sys.dm_os_buffer_descriptors on SQL Server 2025, before and after CHECKPOINT, and explains why the same script can show nothing on newer servers.
SQL SERVER – Create Login with SID – Way to Synchronize Logins on Secondary Server
Create login with SID to keep SQL logins in sync on a secondary server, so users connect after log shipping, AlwaysOn or mirroring failover.
SQL SERVER – Walking the Table Hierarchy in Microsoft SQL Server Database – Notes from the Field #076
Kevin Hazzard shows how to walk the table hierarchy in a SQL Server database using the catalog, so you know the right order to load or clear tables.
SQL SERVER – Finding What Policies Are Enabled on Our Databases
A reader asked how to know which policy is enabled on a server. I explain how the policy engine uses target sets, then query what policies are enabled.
SQL SERVER – Script – Removing Multiple Databases from Log Shipping
Removing multiple databases from log shipping in SSMS takes many clicks per database. Here is a script that calls the log shipping stored procedures instead.