Star schema queries join a large fact table to focused dimensions; learn bitmap filters, columnstore, and indexes that support the real workload.
Partitioning a Large Fact Table
Partitioning a large fact table can simplify loading and retention when boundaries, aligned indexes, and switch rules are designed together.
Using Query Store to Prove an Upgrade Did Not Hurt
Plan a Query Store upgrade comparison with a captured baseline, matched workload periods, regression review, and carefully monitored plan forcing.
Learning SQL Server on a Budget
Learning SQL Server on a budget is possible with free development editions, official documentation, samples, and community practice.
Striped Backups: Writing One Backup to Several Files
Use striped backups across several files, inspect media families, restore every stripe, and test resource settings on your own server.
Fiscal Years That Do Not Start in January
Compute fiscal years and quarters from an April start, build indexed date boundaries, and store a fiscal calendar for repeatable reports.
Restoring to a Newer SQL Server Is a One-Way Trip
Plan a restore to newer SQL Server with the version boundary in mind, preserve the original backup, and understand options for moving data back.