In SQL Server, a Virtual Log File (VLF) is a concept related to the transaction log file. The transaction log records all the transactions and modifications made to the database. VLFs are logical subdivisions within the physical transaction log file. When a SQL Server...
SQL Server Blog Posts
Top 10 Things to Investigate When Amazon RDS for SQL Server Is Running Slow or Performing Poorly
Amazon Relational Database Service (RDS) is a cloud-based service that provides a scalable and managed database solution. Amazon RDS for SQL Server is a relational database engine based on Microsoft SQL Server that is hosted on Amazon Web Services (AWS). While Amazon...
On-Premises vs Cloud: Which is the Best Choice for Hosting SQL Server Databases?
When it comes to choosing between hosting SQL Server databases on-premises, in Amazon Web Services (AWS) SQL Server RDS, or in Azure SQL, there are several factors that a Database Administrator (DBA) must consider. When evaluating cost savings, be sure to consider the...
In-Memory Tables in SQL Server: Benefits, Limitations, and How to Identify Them
If you are looking to improve the speed of transactions, especially for high-concurrency workloads that involve a lot of inserts, update, and delete operations, you might benefit from implementing In-Memory OLTP and experience up to 30X performance gain, as some have...
Guide for Choosing Between SQL Server and MySQL for Your Database Solution
When choosing between SQL Server and MySQL for your database product, it's important to consider several factors, including your specific requirements, data storage and processing needs, and budget. Here is a comprehensive guide to help you make an informed decision....
Fixing High VLFs (Virtual Log Files)
A colleague of mine recently published a blog post explaining Virtual Log Files (VLFs) and why it is important not to have too few or too many VLFs. As a follow-up, this article discusses how to reduce VLFs when they have gotten too far out of control. The process is...
10 Ways to Prep for a SQL Server DBA Interview
Are you looking for a job as a SQL Server Database Administrator (DBA)? If so, you need to ace the technical interview and impress your potential employer. A SQL Server DBA is responsible for managing and maintaining the SQL Server database systems in an organization....
Top 10 Differences Between a SQL Server DBA Today and Twenty Years Ago
SQL Server is one of the most popular relational database management systems (RDBMS) in the world. It has been evolving and improving over the years, adding new features and capabilities to meet the changing needs and expectations of users and businesses. As a result,...
How to Use HierarchyID Data Type in SQL Server
What is the HierarchyID Data Type? Hierarchical data is a common type of data that represents the relationships between entities in a tree-like structure. For example, you may have hierarchical data for your organizational structure, where each employee has a manager...
Best Practices of Setting Up Zero Trust Security with Microsoft SQL Server
In today's constantly evolving threat landscape, traditional security models that rely on perimeter defenses are no longer enough. The zero-trust security model is becoming increasingly popular as it provides a more comprehensive approach to security. This model...