Plan a move off an old SQL Server version with a complete inventory, compatibility testing, a supported target, and a dated exit plan.
SQL SERVER – SELECT 1 vs SELECT * – An Interesting Observation
SELECT 1 vs SELECT * inside IF EXISTS: I ran 4 tests and both gave the same result and the same execution plan cost. Can you find a case where they differ?
ROUND or Truncate: Keep Decimal Width in View
ROUND or truncate is a choice about the result, not its display format. This complete decimal example checks positive and negative values while preserving enough width for thousands.
SQL SERVER – Understanding Licensing Models
The licensing structure has evolved to reflect advances in technology and diverse use cases. Below are the primary licensing models available:
Installing SQL Server on Linux
Installing SQL Server on Linux involves supported packages, mssql-conf setup, service checks, and an understanding of Windows differences.
Reading the SQL Server Error Log Properly
Read the SQL Server error log for startup details and incident context, filter it with T-SQL, and cycle files without losing needed history.
Checking XACT_STATE Before COMMIT or ROLLBACK in a CATCH Block
XACT_STATE separates transaction validity from the decision to retain work. Two isolated examples show a doomed transaction and a committable one, both with deliberate errors. Clean up on the same connection and respect the caller’s transaction ownership.