Msg 864 means a buffer pool extension file is larger than SQL Server allows for the memory in the machine. This post gives the limits, four read-only checks tested on SQL Server 2025, and the steps to start a server that will not boot.
SQL SERVER – ReadOnly Databases and Notes Using Snapshots
Can you get the ReadOnly error without marking the database ReadOnly? Yes, using snapshots. Here is a script that shows the behavior step by step.
Hey DBA – Protecting a Proactive Attitude – Notes from the Field #069
Being proactive is about attitude and mindset, not just scripts. Mike Walsh explains how DBAs and developers can protect a proactive attitude.
SQL SERVER – Storing Data in Hindi, Chinese, Gujarati and Tamil (or any other) Language in the Same Table
Getting ??? after storing data in Hindi, Tamil or Gujarati? Here are the basic rules to follow to keep many languages in the same table.
Building the Restore Script for the Latest Backup Chain From msdb
Do not type a restore sequence by hand at 2 AM. Let msdb tell you the order, and prove the script works before you need it.
SQL SERVER – COLUMNSTORE and COLUMNSTORE_ARCHIVE data compression
SQL Server 2014 adds COLUMNSTORE_ARCHIVE data compression for rarely used data. Here is how to use it on older data, at the cost of slower queries.
SQL SERVER – Script to Find Strings with Same Characters
Need to find strings with same characters, like KKK but not KKT? Here is a simple trick using REPLACE and LEFT, with no WHILE loop needed.