Use WITH CHECKSUM for backups, inspect checksum history, verify backup media, and understand why restored CHECKDB tests are still needed.
Point-in-Time Restore: Getting Back Rows Deleted by Accident
Plan a point-in-time restore after an accidental DELETE, preserve the log chain, recover a separate copy, and return reviewed rows.
Restoring One Table: Restore a Copy and Move the Rows Back
Learn restoring one table by restoring a separate database copy, choosing a recovery point, and safely moving reviewed rows back.
Keeping msdb Small With sp_delete_backuphistory
Use sp_delete_backuphistory to control msdb growth, choose a retention window, and schedule weekly SQL Server Agent cleanup.
Resumable Index Rebuilds: Pausing Maintenance Without Losing Progress
Run a resumable index rebuild with ONLINE and MAX_DURATION, pause and resume it, inspect progress, and weigh edition and log costs.
Tracking Recent Object Changes With modify_date
Use modify_date to find recent SQL Server object changes, compare databases, and understand which audit questions need event capture.
Finding Databases With Auto Shrink or Auto Close Turned On
Find auto shrink and auto close settings, generate reviewed correction commands, inspect model, and check the effects of prior shrink work.