Open a read only file in SSMS and you get a small lock icon. You can edit it, but saving brings a pop-up. Here is how SSMS handles read only files.
SQL Server emergency? Email pinal@sqlauthority.com with URGENT in the subject line.
SQL SERVER – Simple Explanation and Puzzle with SOUNDEX Function and DIFFERENCE Function
A reader’s swap puzzle solution used SOUNDEX, so many asked how it works. I explain the SOUNDEX function and DIFFERENCE function with simple examples.
Building a Reference You Will Actually Use Again
Build a personal reference of dependable SQL examples with problem-based names, clear prerequisites, dated validation, and regular review.
SQL SERVER – Solution of Puzzle – Swap Value of Column Without Case Statement
Readers sent more than 50 answers to my swap puzzle. Here are 5 different ones that swap a column value without CASE statement, plus my own three.
SQL SERVER – Video – Beginning Performance Tuning with SQL Server Execution Plan
Performance tuning is a long journey, and the Execution Plan is its map. A video on how to begin tuning queries with SQL Server execution plans.
SQL SERVER – A Quick Look at Logging and Ideas around Logging
What comes to mind when you hear logging? I asked five SQL Server friends and got five answers, from the OUTPUT clause on. Here are our ideas around logging.
An Error Handling Template for Stored Procedures With THROW
Build an error handling template with XACT_ABORT, XACT_STATE, durable error logging, and THROW, then test a forced procedure failure.
SQL Server slow? Let's fix it together in about four hours.
In my Comprehensive Database Performance Health Check, you share your screen, I guide you, and we fix your biggest performance troublemakers. No passwords. No remote access.
You keep every script, and the know-how to fix it yourself next time.
Want your whole team to learn it?
My Practical Workshop has no PowerPoint, just live demos. My AI Enablement Workshop shows your team where AI saves hours, and where it quietly costs them.
Over 400 customers have worked with me this way, and not one shared a password. See all consulting options.
Who We Are
Pinal Dave is an SQL Server Performance Tuning Expert and independent consultant with over 24 years of hands-on experience. He holds a Masters of Science degree and numerous database certifications.
Pinal has authored 19 books and 125 Pluralsight courses. To freely share his knowledge and help others build their expertise, Pinal has also written more than 5,800 database tech articles on his blog at https://blog.sqlauthority.com.
Pinal is also a CrossFit Level 1 Trainer (CF-L1) and CrossFit Level 2 Trainer (CF-L2).
Nupur Dave is a social media enthusiast and an independent consultant. She primarily focuses on the database domain, helping clients build short and long-term multi-channel campaigns to drive leads for their sales pipeline.
Shaivi Pinalkumar Dave is a book author and a women’s artistic gymnast.

