SQL DBA Blog

Category: SQL Server

SQL Server Blog Archives, by Peter Whyte (Database Administrator).
Includes: Database Admin, Management Studio (SSMS), Windows Admin, PowerShell, WSL, MSSQL Backups, Restores & more…

  • Setting Maximum Database File Sizes in SQL Server

    Configuring maximum database file sizes in SQL Server is often considered a safeguard or tactical measure rather than a primary strategy. Ideally, you want your databases to grow as needed, without arbitrary limits. However, there are situations where capping database sizes becomes a practical necessity. Why Set Maximum…

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  • How to Move Temp DB Files in SQL Server

    It’s a solid best practice to store temp db files on a separate drive, away from your C: drive. This is because temp db can grow very large, very quickly, sometimes within minutes depending on workloads. This growth affects both the temp db data (.ndf) and log (.ldf)…

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  • The SSMS Import Flat File Feature

    The Import Flat File feature within SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS) was introduced in December 2017 (14.0.17213.0). This is a streamlined version of the Import Data feature and it minimises the user intervention during a file import. Unlike the Import data feature, you don’t have the option to…

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  • Attaching SQL Databases Without Log Files

    In a perfect world, you’d never lose a database log file. But when the unexpected happens and you urgently need the data from a database, knowing how to attach a SQL Server database without its log (.ldf) file can be a lifesaver. This guide walks you through the…

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  • SQL Server Backup & Restore WITH FILE Option

    When you back up a SQL Server database, multiple backups can be stored in a single file. The WITH FILE = X option allows you to choose a specific backup version from a single backup file. Here’s what happens: – WITH FILE = 1: Restores the first backup…

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  • Applying Data Retention to a SQL Table

    In SQL Server, there’s often a need to delete old data from a database table. This could be for reasons like adhering to GDPR policies, managing oversized tables that are slowing down operations, staying within SQL Server Express’s 10GB limit, or simply cleaning up application logs and errors.…

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  • How to Change Connection Colours in SSMS

    SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS) is the go-to tool for running SQL Server queries. One of its handy features is the ability to change the colour of the query banner, providing a visual indicator of the server environment you are connected to. This feature can be especially beneficial…

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  • Exporting SQL Server Query Results to CSV

    This guide explains how to export a SQL Server query results to a CSV file using SSMS. SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS) is the primary tool used for managing SQL Server databases and running queries. By default, SSMS exports data in a column-aligned format, but to export data…

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  • How to Check Table Sizes in SQL Server

    There are many ways to check the size of a table in SQL Server. The way you will do it will likely depend on what your task at-hand is. For example, a quick look at the Disk Usage by Top Tables report on a database you’ve never seen…

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  • Backing Up a SQL Server Database

    Backing up a database is something I’ve always found easier done within a query window. There’s not much to it; That’s what I’m used to writing. I’ve no need to worry about the copy_only option these days, or check SQL Server Editions to see if I can use…

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