What to record before tuning a slow query starts with the original execution. Keep its SQL, inputs, connection settings, measurements, and plan together before testing a change.
Interview Question of the Week #043 – What is the Difference Between EXCEPT operator vs. NOT IN
Compare EXCEPT operator vs. NOT IN using NULL and duplicate examples, add NOT EXISTS, and inspect actual SQL Server anti-join plans.
SQL SERVER – To Find Events Mapped to Channels in Extended Events
How exhaustive are Extended Events compared to Profiler? A DBA asked me, so here is how to find events mapped to channels in Extended Events.
SQL SERVER – Error Fix: Msg 300, VIEW SERVER STATE
Fix SQL Server Msg 300 when a user lacks VIEW SERVER STATE permission, and learn how to grant it safely without giving away too much access.
SQL SERVER – Steps to Backup to Windows Azure storage
Steps to backup to Windows Azure storage with T-SQL: create a credential for your storage account, then back up to a blob, with no extra tools needed.
SQL SERVER – Linked server creation error: OLE DB provider “SQLNCLI11” for linked server returned message “Invalid authorization specification”
Creating a linked server between two local instances failed with OLE DB provider SQLNCLI11 returned Invalid authorization specification. Here is the fix.
Putting a Database Under Source Control
Putting a database under source control starts with state or migration scripts, consistent object files, and a reviewable first commit.