SQL DBA/SRE Blog
by Peter Whyte
A blog focused on Microsoft SQL Server Database Administration and Site Reliability Engineering, authored by an experienced Production DBA currently working at an S&P 500 company.
Here, you can explore practical insights, troubleshooting techniques, and best practices for managing High Available (HA) SQL Server environments at scale. Alongside this, there’s tips for improving productivity as an Admin, and many other topics covered that you may find useful.
DBA Blog Categories
Recent Blog Posts
About this blog
I first started my blogging journey in 2017, driven by the desire to have my own space for technical notes, and for showcasing my skills while helping fellow SQL Server DBA’s in the field. It took a long time of trial and error through-out the years for me to be able to learn how to create & manage websites using WordPress, and to learn how to write and format a proper blog post.
It’s been a long journey, forever learning and forever trying to achieve consistency with publishing new content regularly. With each year, life and career bring unforeseen challenges that may disrupt progress, however the ambition has always been there. My primary goal is to publish new content online consistently, while continuing to learn and improve every step of the way, in both Database Admin skills and maintaining good websites.
I hope you enjoy reading my work here and it helps improve your knowledge for managing SQL Servers, and beyond – There’s much more than SQL Server included here.
DBA Notes & Links
Useful links to official documentation pages, or some internal pages. This is my own list of links that I find useful for the day-to-day duties as a MSSQL Database Administrator. There’s not a working day that goes by without looking at (mostly Microsoft) documentation, that’s always the first place we should be looking for our technical information.
SQL Server Downloads
– Download SQL Server.
– Download SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS).
Cloud Portals
– Azure Portal.
– AWS Console.
Tools
Frequently Asked Questions
(…FAQ’s I made up)
What is a DBA?
A DBA stands for Database Administrator. This is a role in the field of information technology (IT) responsible for managing and maintaining databases. The DBA’s tasks ensure that databases are efficiently running, secure, and available to users. The main focus of this blog is SQL Server, one of many Relational Database Management Systems (RDMS) available on the market.
What is the purpose of this blog?
To provide valuable information for DBAs, software developers, sysadmins, and other IT professionals, offering insights on best practices, troubleshooting particular issues, and information on new tools or software updates. You may see display Ads, and there are no Affiliate links on this site.
What skills are required to be a DBA?
A DBA should have a strong understanding of database management systems (DBMS), SQL, and database design. Key skills include performance tuning, data backup and recovery, security management, and troubleshooting. Familiarity with Operating Systems, Cloud technologies, Automation, and Scripting are focus areas.
How do I become a DBA?
To become a DBA, start by gaining a strong foundation in computer science and database management. You should learn SQL, database design, and how to work with popular DBMS like MySQL, SQL Server, or Oracle. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level IT positions, and earning certifications (such as Microsoft Certified: Azure Database Administrator) can also boost your qualifications. Hands-on practice with database administration tasks like performance tuning, backups, and security will further develop your skills.
More About the Author
The Author, Peter Whyte. That’s me.
I’m a SQL Server Database Administrator, working remotely from Edinburgh, Scotland. I’ve always been passionate about the database world, and have been dedicated in growing my technical skills from early career until reaching goals, and beyond.
When I’m not immersed in databases or system administration, I’m focused on being a present dad to my daughter. And when time allows, I like to go out hiking &/or camping to recharge.
I hope you enjoy my content offerings, whatever you might browse through. I enjoy knowing I’m helping grow the Internet, via blogging, and by being very dedicated working at an Internet company.
Got questions or feedback? Feel free to reach out!
