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.
SQL SERVER – Get Common Records From Two Tables Without Using Join
Sachin wanted common records from two tables without writing a join condition. Imran Mohammed shows how INTERSECT in SQL Server 2005 does it.
Closure Table: Read and Validate Hierarchy Paths
A closure table stores ancestor and descendant paths. Read those relationships efficiently and compare them with the authoritative parent edges.
SQL SERVER – Get Numeric Value From Alpha Numeric String – UDF for Get Numeric Numbers Only
A simple UDF that gets only the numbers from an alpha numeric string, using PATINDEX and STUFF, with test values for empty, NULL and mixed strings.