A reader needed a fixed width number display, like 1 shown as 0000001. SQL Server has no ready-made function, but a simple string trick does it.
When SSMS and Your Application Return Different Results
Investigate SSMS different results by comparing connections, parameters, session options, transactions, and plans against the application.
SQL SERVER – Reasons to Backup Master Database – Why Should Master Database Backedup
Why should you backup master database? It holds all logins, system configuration and the details SQL Server needs to reach every other database.
Connecting to SQL Server From Java, Python and .NET
Choose a SQL Server driver for Java, Python, or .NET, then verify encryption, authentication, pooling, and the application's connection.
SQL SERVER – 2008 – 2005 – Find Longest Running Query – TSQL – Part 2
An updated script to find the longest running query in SQL Server 2005 and 2008, with the divide by zero error fixed and time now shown in milliseconds.
SQL SERVER – Rules for Optimizining Any Query – Best Practices for Query Optimization
My quick rules for query optimization: a primary key, a clustered index, the right non-clustered indexes, fewer views and triggers, and other simple checks.
Securing Linked Servers
Securing linked servers requires explicit login mappings, limited RPC settings, remote privilege checks, and dependency ownership.