Welcome to the Stedman Solutions Blog: Your Go-To Resource for SQL Server Insights
If you’re a SQL Server enthusiast, an IT professional tasked with managing databases, or a business owner who relies on SQL Server for mission-critical applications, you’ve come to the right place. The Stedman Solutions Blog is designed to share practical, real-world knowledge and tips to help you get the most out of your SQL Server environment.
At Stedman Solutions, LLC, we’ve been working with SQL Server since 1990, focusing on performance tuning, troubleshooting, and long-term database health. This blog is an extension of that expertise, crafted to serve as a resource hub for the SQL Server community.
What You’ll Find on Our Blog
1. SQL Server Tips and Tutorials
From fundamental concepts to advanced topics like performance tuning and query optimization, we aim to demystify SQL Server with tutorials and examples. Whether you’re just getting started or are looking for expert insights, you’ll find articles tailored to your level of expertise.
2. Case Studies and Real-World Scenarios
Discover how our team has solved challenging SQL Server issues, including database corruption repair, performance bottlenecks, and high-availability configuration. These real-world stories illustrate the value of specialized SQL Server knowledge.
3. Best Practices for SQL Server Management
Learn strategies for keeping your SQL Server environment secure, reliable, and high-performing. From regular maintenance routines to disaster recovery planning, we’ll share actionable advice to protect your data.
4. Updates on SQL Server Tools and Features
Stay current with the latest developments in the SQL Server ecosystem. We’ll provide insights on new features, updates, and tools that can enhance your database operations.
5. Behind-the-Scenes Look at Stedman Solutions
We’re passionate about SQL Server, and our blog offers a glimpse into our projects, team culture, and the tools we use every day—like our Database Health Monitor, a free tool for monitoring and improving SQL Server performance.
Why Follow the Stedman Solutions Blog?
Our blog is more than just another technical resource. It’s a place where we share knowledge gained from decades of experience and hundreds of successful client engagements. By following our blog, you’ll gain insights that can:
- Help you solve SQL Server challenges faster.
- Prevent costly downtime and data loss.
- Enhance your skills with practical guidance.
Let’s Get Started!
We invite you to explore our latest posts and subscribe to stay updated. Whether you’re interested in proactive SQL Server management, advanced tuning techniques, or simply looking to keep your environment running smoothly, the Stedman Solutions Blog is here to help.
For more in-depth support or to learn about our Managed Services, contact us today. Let’s take the stress out of SQL Server management together!
Explore our blog today at Stedman Solutions Blog. Let’s build better databases, one post at a time!
- sys.dm_exec_query_profiles: What the Row Counts HideWhat sys.dm_exec_query_profiles counts, what it misses, and the traps in reading it by hand, before you trust a query progress number.
- Veterans Day Offer: Free Database Health Monitor Onboarding for VeteransThis Veterans Day, we are proud to recognize and honor the brave men and women who have served our country, including the dedicated Veterans who are part of our own team at Database Health Monitor. Their commitment, discipline, and expertise continue to strengthen both our mission and the broader SQL Server community. From November 11th… Read More »Veterans Day Offer: Free Database Health Monitor Onboarding for Veterans
- ORM SQL Server Performance: Which Framework Is It?ORM SQL Server performance problems hide behind one program name. Learn how to spot the framework, its Unicode parameters and its transactions, and fix them.
- SQL Server Database Corruption: Prevention, Detection and Recovery CourseSQL Server Database Corruption can strike any organization without warning. Learn proven prevention, detection, and recovery strategies to protect your data. Database corruption can lead to halted operations, loss of data integrity, or complete data loss, disrupting business continuity and eroding customer trust. How prepared are you for such challenges, and what proactive steps can… Read More »SQL Server Database Corruption: Prevention, Detection and Recovery Course
- Version 4.1869: Get Answers From Your SQL Server History Before the Auditor AsksWhat Database Health Monitor 4.1869 means for the people accountable for SQL Server: monthly summaries, capacity dates, accountability reports and PDF output.
- SQL Server Training Discounts: CTE Class, Aggregation for $3 and 50% Off Performance TuningGreetings, dedicated learners and passionate SQL Server enthusiasts! Time is of the essence as we near the conclusion of another productive week of training at Stedman Solutions LLC. We have been thrilled by your strong enthusiasm for mastering essential database skills and expanding your expertise in SQL Server through hands-on workshops and practical exercises. To… Read More »SQL Server Training Discounts: CTE Class, Aggregation for $3 and 50% Off Performance Tuning
- SQL Server Performance Tuning Course – 50% Off for $149.99Are you prepared to dramatically enhance your SQL Server’s performance and achieve faster query response times? If so, you’re in the right place! We’re excited to share an exclusive limited-time offer on our in-depth SQL Server Performance Tuning course, carefully designed to provide database professionals with practical skills and advanced knowledge. You’ll learn proven techniques… Read More »SQL Server Performance Tuning Course – 50% Off for $149.99
- Logical Reads Per Row: Which Query Reads Too Much?Total reads rank the loud query, not the wasteful one. See how logical reads per row separates honest scans from lookups with a missing index.
- SQL Aggregation and Window Functions Course for $3 (Limited Time)Attention all SQL enthusiasts, data analysts, and database professionals seeking to elevate their skills! Our highly anticipated SQL Aggregation and Window Functions course in SQL Server is now available at an exclusive promotional price. For a limited time only, dive deep into the intricacies of advanced SQL querying techniques for just $3! This special offer… Read More »SQL Aggregation and Window Functions Course for $3 (Limited Time)
- WRITELOG Wait: Slow Storage or One-Row Commits?A WRITELOG wait has two opposite fixes: faster storage or batched commits. Here is how to tell which one your SQL Server needs before you spend anything.
- Common Table Expressions (CTEs) in SQL Server: Comprehensive Course with Recursive QueriesCommon Table Expressions (CTEs) are an integral feature in SQL Server, enabling developers to produce more organized, readable, and maintainable code for even the most demanding database projects. Recognizing their importance, we’ve invested over 9 years into curating a course that encompasses every facet of CTEs, from foundational concepts to advanced optimization patterns. Drawing from… Read More »Common Table Expressions (CTEs) in SQL Server: Comprehensive Course with Recursive Queries
- Write Amplification SQL Server Table: What One Row CostsFind the write amplification SQL Server table behind slow inserts and a growing log. See what one row costs in indexes, triggers and history, then fix it.
- November SQL Server Deals: 40% Off Joins Class and $2 Output Clause CourseAct now because there’s only a limited window of opportunity to secure these incredible deals on our comprehensive SQL Server classes scheduled throughout November. These exclusive discounts won’t last long and will expire in just a few short days, paving the way for exciting new promotions that will be introduced shortly. Don’t miss your chance… Read More »November SQL Server Deals: 40% Off Joins Class and $2 Output Clause Course
- If I Had 30 Minutes To Audit Your SQL Server Stedman SQL Podcast Sn 3 Ep 18If I Had 30 Minutes To Audit Your SQL Server Stedman SQL Podcast Sn 3 Ep 18 If you had just 30 minutes to evaluate the health of a SQL Server, where would you start? In this episode, Steve Stedman and George Stedman walk through their real-world SQL Server health check process, sharing the most… Read More »If I Had 30 Minutes To Audit Your SQL Server Stedman SQL Podcast Sn 3 Ep 18
- The Everything SQL Server Class BundleHello SQL enthusiasts and database professionals! Today, we are thrilled to spotlight our flagship class offering—the Everything SQL Server Bundle—a complete collection of expert-led courses designed to transform how you work with Microsoft SQL Server. Carefully curated for both aspiring beginners who want to master the fundamentals and seasoned pros seeking advanced techniques, this comprehensive… Read More »The Everything SQL Server Class Bundle
- SQL Server Linked Servers: The Trust Nobody ReviewsMost SQL Server linked servers are created once and never reviewed. Here is how to find the dead ones, the duplicates and the wide open ones.
- SQL Server OUTPUT Clause Class for $2 with Code OUTPUT2 – Auditing & Data ChangesThe SQL Server OUTPUT clause helps you handle data modifications and track changes within your databases. Mastering this advanced feature can dramatically improve how you insert, update, and delete rows without requiring extra queries afterward. Right now, you can gain this expertise through a focused course available for only two dollars using the special code… Read More »SQL Server OUTPUT Clause Class for $2 with Code OUTPUT2 – Auditing & Data Changes
- Version 4.1818: Put Your SQL Servers on the Wall and Catch Problems Before Users DoWhat Database Health Monitor 4.1818 means for a team that runs SQL Server without a full time DBA: shared dashboards, a wall display, patch currency and plainer answers.
- Master SQL Joins: 40% Off SQL Join Types Course with Code JOINSNOVMastering SQL joins is essential for anyone looking to write efficient queries and unlock the full power of relational databases. Whether you’re handling complex data relationships or optimizing performance, a solid grasp of these techniques can set you apart in your career. We’re excited to share an exclusive limited-time opportunity to deepen your skills with… Read More »Master SQL Joins: 40% Off SQL Join Types Course with Code JOINSNOV
- November SQL Server Course Sale: 40% Off Deals & Flash SalesAs November rolls in, Stedman Solutions is once again opening the doors to exceptional savings on SQL Server training courses. This month-long SQL Server course sale brings together a range of discounts designed to help database professionals expand their skills without stretching their budgets. From weekly specials to time-limited flash sales, the lineup offers multiple… Read More »November SQL Server Course Sale: 40% Off Deals & Flash Sales
- Happy Halloween From Stedman SolutionsAs the jack-o’-lanterns glow and the costumes come out, Halloween brings its share of thrills and chills. But here at Stedman Solutions, we’re declaring one thing off-limits for scares: SQL Server. That’s right—your databases don’t need to be spooky on October 31st, or any other day. Think about it. Ghosts in the machine? Haunting query… Read More »Happy Halloween From Stedman Solutions
- TDE Certificate Backup: The Restore That Cannot OpenA TDE certificate backup that was never exported turns a restore on another server into an unreadable file. Here is how to check master in minutes.
- SQL Server Patch Level: Which Servers Are Behind?Nobody can say which servers are behind on cumulative updates without logging into each one. Here is how to read your SQL Server patch level in one grid.
- Final Days to Seize October Special at Stedman Solutions!For the month of October you will receive a free year of our SQL Server Daily Monitoring with the purchase of a SQL Server Assessment. Time is running out! There are only a few days left in October, which means you have a limited opportunity to benefit from our exclusive offer at Stedman Solutions. Purchase… Read More »Final Days to Seize October Special at Stedman Solutions!
- Version 4.1796: Faster Answers and Fewer Slow Queries for Teams That Run SQL ServerWhat Database Health Monitor 4.1796 means for small teams: less guessing, better conversations with developers and vendors, and earlier warning on blocking.
- Is Your SQL Server Security Score Hiding a Critical Fail?A flat SQL Server security score hides the one failure that matters. See how weighting by severity puts the critical findings first.
- SQL Server Connections by Database: Who Owns the Count?SQL Server connections by database turns a baffling instance total into a named application, with pool limits, leaks and master slices explained.
- TSQL Output Clause CourseThe output clause is one of the wow factor query items, where when people see you use it the just go WOW, I did not know you could do that. I can remember working with a client and showing that to them and getting that same reaction of WOW. Have you seen our SQL short… Read More »TSQL Output Clause Course
- SQL Server Connections by Database: Who Owns the Count?When the instance connection total jumps, SQL Server connections by database shows which application is holding them. Here is how to read the split.
- The SQL Login Nobody Remembers: Finding Accounts With the Password Policy Turned OffVendor installers leave behind SQL logins with CHECK_POLICY off, which means no complexity, no expiry and no lockout. Here is why they survive every review, what they cost, and how to fix them without breaking the application.
- Master Database Size: Read This Row Before the MegabytesIs your master database size normal? Read the object count first, then the used and free split in each file, and only then the file size itself.
- SQL Join Types PosterLearn more about the Join Types poster. Compatible with SQL Server (TSQL) and MySQL. Check out the poster, it is a versatile, print-on-demand resource which you can customize according to your preference of size. This tool has been tailored to serve as a useful reference for both SQL Server developers and database administrators, simplifying the… Read More »SQL Join Types Poster
- Availability Group Lag: What a Failover Would Cost YouGreen in the dashboard does not mean safe to fail over. See how availability group lag turns into data loss and redo time, and where to measure each.
- Empower Your Projects with our Skilled DBAs and Programmers: A Comprehensive SolutionWith a technical team of 5 people with well over 100 years of combined experience we are available to help with your next project. Our team of highly experienced Database Administrators (DBAs) and programmers is uniquely qualified to support and elevate your projects. They bring an array of expertise to the table, each with their… Read More »Empower Your Projects with our Skilled DBAs and Programmers: A Comprehensive Solution
- SQL Code Smells: Unindexed Range PredicatesWhen a query filters a large table on a range, like a date window, and no index supports that range, SQL Server scans the table. Put that scan inside a subquery that gets joined to other inputs, and a query that should take seconds can run for hours. In a recent case, one covering index… Read More »SQL Code Smells: Unindexed Range Predicates
- SSRS Shared Dataset Report: What to Read FirstOpen an SSRS shared dataset report and the biggest number is the wrong place to look. Here is the order that finds broken reports and dead datasets.
- Unlock the Full Potential of Your SQL Server with Stedman Solutions Managed ServicesUnlock the Full Potential of Your SQL Server with Stedman Solutions’ Managed Services In today’s fast-paced world, your SQL Server database is more crucial than ever. It’s the powerhouse behind your most critical operations. That’s where Stedman Solutions, LLC, steps in. We offer flexible, fully managed services tailored to the unique demands of your SQL… Read More »Unlock the Full Potential of Your SQL Server with Stedman Solutions Managed Services
- SQL Server Memory Usage: Where Did All the RAM Go?Task Manager says SQL Server ate all the RAM. Here is how to read SQL Server memory usage as three nested layers and find the pressure that actually hurts.
- SQL Server Query Slow When Busy? Find Out Which KindIs a SQL Server query slow when busy because of its plan or because of its neighbors? Compare quiet and busy Query Store intervals to find out in minutes.
- Database Health Monitor Version 4 Instance Reports Stedman SQL Podcast Sn 3 Ep 17Database Health Monitor Version 4 Instance Reports Stedman SQL Podcast Sn 3 Ep 17 In Season 3, Episode 17 of the Stedman SQL Server Podcast, Steve Stedman and George Stedman explore the powerful Instance Reports in Database Health Monitor Version 4, demonstrating how SQL Server DBAs and IT professionals can quickly identify performance bottlenecks, troubleshoot… Read More »Database Health Monitor Version 4 Instance Reports Stedman SQL Podcast Sn 3 Ep 17
- Deadlock Heat Map: Find the Hour Your Deadlocks HitA deadlock heat map shows which hour and day your SQL Server deadlocks cluster, so you can find the colliding job instead of guessing from one graph.
- Query Store Stopped Collecting? How to Tell FastQuery Store stopped collecting, and nothing told you. Here is how to prove whether the history behind your tuning reports is really there, and fix it.
- SQL Server Backup Status: Beyond the Last Backup DateSQL Server backup status is more than a last backup date. See how exposure, log chains and the restore sequence show what you would really lose.
- Query Store Plan Instability: Why It Was Fast YesterdayQuery Store plan instability hides behind plans that cost the same. Here is how to measure how long a plan lasts and which queries keep flipping.
- Which Hour of the Day Is Slower Than It Used to Be?Which hour of the day is slower than it used to be? Sort Query Store history by hour and read each hour’s level and slope to find out.
- SQL Server Overview: The DMVs Behind Every NumberA SQL Server overview is built from DMVs that reset, accumulate and exclude things. Here is what each number counts, and what it quietly leaves out.
- Top 10 Techniques to Turbocharge Your SQL Server PerformanceFor the month of October you will receive a free year of our SQL Server Daily Monitoring with the purchase of a SQL Server Assessment. Top 10 Techniques to Turbocharge Your SQL Server Performance Understanding how to optimize your SQL Server performance is crucial for ensuring your applications and data-driven processes run smoothly. In this… Read More »Top 10 Techniques to Turbocharge Your SQL Server Performance
- Three Quiet Failures Your Monitoring Probably Misses: Service Broker, Unprotected Columns and Analysis ServicesSome of the most costly SQL Server failures raise no error at all. Here are three of them, and how Database Health Monitor 4.1626 now finds each one.
- SQL Server Deadlock History: Find What CollidesA deadlock count tells you there is a problem. SQL Server deadlock history grouped by object and statement pair tells you what to change. Here is how to read it.
- Daily Monitoring ProductA great way to keep tabs on the overall health of your SQL Server. Pricing: $129.99 per month per SQL Server instance when paid month to month. Payment on a recurring payment by credit card plan required. We provide monitoring tools that alert us when there is an issue so that we can recommend fixes… Read More »Daily Monitoring Product
- SQL Server Triggers: What Fires When Your Table Is WrittenA write that is slow, deadlocks, or corrupts rows may be hitting SQL Server triggers nobody remembers. Here is how to see what fires, and what to fix first.
- Optimizing Efficiency and Security: The Power of an SQL Server Health AssessmentIn today’s fast-paced technology landscape, businesses depend on efficient and secure data management to stay competitive. An SQL Server health assessment plays a crucial role in ensuring that your systems are running optimally, safeguarded from vulnerabilities, and prepared for future growth. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the importance of performing an SQL Server… Read More »Optimizing Efficiency and Security: The Power of an SQL Server Health Assessment
- Full year of Daily SQL Monitoring FREE with purchaseOctober Special at Stedman Solutions: Receive a Year of Free SQL Server Monitoring! For a limited time this October, Stedman Solutions is excited to announce an unbeatable offer. When you purchase a SQL Server Assessment, we’ll provide a full year of our renowned SQL Server Daily Monitoring service at no additional cost. We can help!https://stedman.us/performance… Read More »Full year of Daily SQL Monitoring FREE with purchase
- Reading the SQL Server Error Log Before It Reads YouThe SQL Server error log holds the evidence for your last outage. Here is how to read archives, group the noise, and spot 825 and 18456 fast.
- Common Reasons you may need to restore from backupsOur Backup and Restore Course is designed to give you a comprehensive understanding of SQL Server backup strategies, restoration processes, and best practices. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced DBA, this course covers everything from simple database backups to advanced techniques like transaction log backups, point-in-time recovery, and disaster recovery planning. Learn how to… Read More »Common Reasons you may need to restore from backups
- The Questions Your SQL Server Estate Could Not Answer Until Now: Cost, Licensing, Sensitive Data and RiskCost per database, unused Enterprise features, where personal data lives, whether servers can be consolidated, and what is about to run out. Database Health Monitor 4.1625 turns those days of manual digging into a report.
- Datacenter failure, can you get your backups?Our Backup and Restore Course is designed to give you a comprehensive understanding of SQL Server backup strategies, restoration processes, and best practices. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced DBA, this course covers everything from simple database backups to advanced techniques like transaction log backups, point-in-time recovery, and disaster recovery planning. Learn how to… Read More »Datacenter failure, can you get your backups?
- Why SQL Server CPU Pressure Isn’t What Task Manager ShowsTask Manager’s CPU percentage hides real CPU pressure. Learn which SQL Server counter shows it and what a healthy loaded server actually looks like.
- What’s Really Driving Your ReportServer Database SizeReportServer database size rarely grows from report definitions. See which tables, in the catalog and its temp database, actually reserve the space.
- Are you ready to restore those backups?In our data-driven world, having a reliable backup for your SQL Server data is just half the battle; knowing how to effectively recover that data is equally vital. Stedman’s SQL Server Backup and Recovery Course is designed to equip you with not just the skills to back up your data, but more importantly, to recover… Read More »Are you ready to restore those backups?
- The SQL Server Residual Predicate Hiding in Your PlanA SQL Server residual predicate lets an index seek report success while it reads and discards most of the rows it touched. Here’s how to find it.
- What Is in Master, and What a Rebuild Would LoseWhat is in master often surprises the team that has to rebuild it: credentials, triggers, and startup procedures nobody documented.
- Azure SQL Health Monitor Stedman SQL Podcast Sn 3 Ep 15Azure SQL Health Monitor Stedman SQL Podcast Sn 3 Ep 15 Join Steve Stedman and Mitchell Glasscock for Season 3, Episode 16 of the Stedman SQL Podcast as they introduce Azure SQL Health Monitor, a powerful new addition to Database Health Monitor Version 4. Discover how to identify Azure SQL performance bottlenecks, diagnose CPU and… Read More »Azure SQL Health Monitor Stedman SQL Podcast Sn 3 Ep 15
- What a 515-Bug-Fix Release Says About the SQL Server Estate You Cannot SeeDatabase Health Monitor 4.1540 adds 63 reports, 25 features and 515 bug fixes. Here is what that release actually means for a consulting practice or an in-house team responsible for more SQL Server instances than they can watch by hand.
- What Changed in the Query Plan Before It Got SlowerSee what changed in the query plan the moment SQL Server switches to a new one, lane by lane, before you force the old plan back.
- Who Gets SQL Server Email? Nobody Can Tell YouWho gets SQL Server email? Operators are only part of the answer. Learn how to find every address, the leavers and the dead mailboxes.
- Ransomware attack and your backup and recovery planRecovering from a ransomware attack is a critical aspect of backup and recovery for SQL Server. Ransomware is a type of malicious software that encrypts files and demands payment in exchange for the decryption key. Ransomware attacks can cause significant damage to your organization’s data, and recovering from these attacks can be challenging. To recover… Read More »Ransomware attack and your backup and recovery plan
- Is This Index Still Used? Read the Trend, Not the TotalIs this index still used? A lifetime read count cannot say. Here is how a per-index trend line catches an index that went silent weeks ago.
- Backup and Restore Course OverviewOur Backup and Restore Course is designed to give you a comprehensive understanding of SQL Server backup strategies, restoration processes, and best practices. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced DBA, this course covers everything from simple database backups to advanced techniques like transaction log backups, point-in-time recovery, and disaster recovery planning. Learn how to… Read More »Backup and Restore Course Overview
- Your SQL Server Maintenance Window Is a Guess. Measure ItMost SQL Server maintenance window schedules are typed in once and never checked. Here is how to measure the quiet hours instead of guessing at them.
- Why Your SQL Server Backups Are More Crucial Than You Think: Lessons from the FrontlinesHello everyone, today, I want to talk about something near and dear to my heart: SQL Server backups. Trust me when I say that having a reliable backup is the guardian angel you never knew you needed until disaster strikes. Here’s why. The Reality of Emergency SQL Server Responses At Stedman Solutions, a portion of… Read More »Why Your SQL Server Backups Are More Crucial Than You Think: Lessons from the Frontlines
- Why Is One Execution Plan Slower Than Another?Why is one execution plan slower than another for the same SQL Server query? See which Query Store measures explain the gap, not just duration.
- How to Find Offline Database Files in SQL ServerSee offline database files, growth settings, and volumes for every database on an instance, even ones that are offline, restoring, or suspect.
- Recovering from a ransomware attackRecovering from a ransomware attack is a crucial aspect of backup and recovery for SQL Server, and it deserves a closer look. Ransomware attacks have become increasingly common and are a growing concern for many organizations. These attacks can cause significant damage to data, result in system downtime, and even disrupt business operations. Preventing ramsomware… Read More »Recovering from a ransomware attack
- Recovering from accidental data deletesOur Backup and Restore Course is designed to give you a comprehensive understanding of SQL Server backup strategies, restoration processes, and best practices. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced DBA, this course covers everything from simple database backups to advanced techniques like transaction log backups, point-in-time recovery, and disaster recovery planning. Learn how to… Read More »Recovering from accidental data deletes
- A Password Protected SSIS Package Can Stall a MigrationA password protected SSIS package can stall a migration for days. Here is how to find every one hiding inside msdb first.
- Why Your Management Data Warehouse Stopped UpdatingA management data warehouse can stop updating while its Agent jobs still show green. Here’s where SQL Server keeps the real failure text.
- What a SQL Server Index Health Score Really Tells YouSQL Server index health is more than a fragmentation percentage: one score with its reasons, backed by ten indexing reports rolled into cards.
- SQL Server Index Fragmentation: Stop Chasing the PercentSQL Server index fragmentation percentage can be misleading. Here is the number that actually predicts what a rebuild will buy you, and where to find it.
- SQL Server LOB Columns in Indexes Are Costing You DiskSQL Server LOB columns in indexes duplicate data on disk. Here’s how to find every one, measure the cost, and know which are safe to remove.
- Database Health Monitor V4 Stedman SQL Podcast Sn 3 Ep 14Stedman SQL Podcast Sn 3 Ep 14 Database Health Monitor Version 4 Database Health Monitor Version 4 is here, and it’s one of the biggest updates we’ve ever made! In Season 3, Episode 14 of the Stedman SQL Podcast, Steve Stedman, George Stedman, and Mitchell Glasscock take a tour through what’s new in Database Health… Read More »Database Health Monitor V4 Stedman SQL Podcast Sn 3 Ep 14
- Backup and recovery for SQL ServerAs a database professional, you know how critical it is to have a solid backup and recovery plan in place for your SQL Server environment. Whether you’re dealing with accidental data deletes, ransomware attacks, disk failures, or complete datacenter outages, having a well-planned backup and recovery strategy is essential to ensure that your organization can… Read More »Backup and recovery for SQL Server
- Database Health Monitor Version 4 Has Been ReleasedWe’re excited to announce that Database Health Monitor Version 4 is now available! Version 4 represents one of the biggest updates to Database Health Monitor since its original release. While the most obvious change is the completely redesigned interface, this release goes far beyond a visual refresh. We’ve rebuilt and improved nearly every part of… Read More »Database Health Monitor Version 4 Has Been Released
- What SQL Server Suspect Pages Are Trying to Tell YouSQL Server suspect pages sit quietly in msdb until a disk finally fails. Learn what each event means and how to tell damage from a fix.
- SQL Server Scalar UDF Inlining: Free Speed You’re MissingSQL Server scalar UDF inlining can erase a function’s cost entirely, or it can silently never fire. Here is how to see which is true for yours.
- Happy Labor DayIn observance of the US federal holiday Labor Day, Stedman Solutions, LLC will be closed for the first Monday in September. As the founder of Stedman Solutions, LLC, I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of the Team members for everything they do every day. If you need emergency help during this… Read More »Happy Labor Day
- How to Find Local SQL Server Instances Without GuessingSee how Database Health Monitor can find local SQL Server instances automatically, so you are not guessing a name during an incident.
- Why Your SQL Server Alert History Is Full of NoiseHundreds of alert emails don’t mean hundreds of problems. Learn to read SQL Server alert history before you touch a single threshold.
- Reserved Versus Used Space: What Your Tables HideSee reserved versus used space for every table in your database, and find exactly which one is wasting space you could reclaim today.
- Backup and recovery relating to disk failureRecovering from disk failure is a critical aspect of backup and recovery for SQL Server. A disk failure can occur due to a variety of reasons such as hardware failure, power outages, or natural disasters. When a disk failure occurs, it can result in data loss, system downtime, and even business disruption. To mitigate the… Read More »Backup and recovery relating to disk failure
- How to Track SQL Server Table Size Before It Surprises YouSee SQL Server table size ranked across every table, spot which ones dominate the database, and know before a restore or migration bites.
- Find Patterns in Your SQL Server Blocking HistorySee your SQL Server blocking history as an hour-by-day heat map, so a recurring problem shows up as a pattern instead of a guess.
- The Importance of SQL Server Backup and Recovery: Learn from ExpertsIn the wise words of Benjamin Franklin, “If You Fail to Plan, You Are Planning to Fail.” This timeless adage holds particular relevance when it comes to safeguarding your SQL Server databases. A failure to adequately prepare for data loss scenarios—be it due to hardware malfunctions, data corruption, or increasingly prevalent ransomware attacks—can have devastating… Read More »The Importance of SQL Server Backup and Recovery: Learn from Experts
- SQL Server Waits by Query: Find What’s Actually SlowSee SQL Server waits by query, split into CPU time and wait categories, so you know whether to tune the query or fix what is blocking it.
- A Sneak Peek at the Backup and Recovery Course“Oh yes of course I have SQL Server backups” Take another look. Do they fit your needs? About 40% of new customers we meet do not have adequate backups for their business! That’s 1 in 3 companies! Insufficiently meeting the business needs, the consequences of inadequate database backups can be perilous. Failing to align backups… Read More »A Sneak Peek at the Backup and Recovery Course
- September Promotion on my backup and recovery course.Hey there! Steve Stedman here, and I’m thrilled to announce a special sale on my Backup and Recovery Course for SQL Server! As a database professional, you understand the critical importance of having a solid backup and recovery plan. It’s the difference between a minor hiccup and a major catastrophe that could disrupt your entire… Read More »September Promotion on my backup and recovery course.
- Introducing SQL Server Mentoring: Your Shortcut to Expert GuidanceHey there, Steve Stedman here, ready to share some exciting news with you. At Stedman Solutions, we understand that sometimes all you need is a little assistance without committing to a long-term arrangement. That’s why we’ve developed our SQL Server Mentoring service to cater specifically to your needs. SQL Server Mentoring is the perfect blend… Read More »Introducing SQL Server Mentoring: Your Shortcut to Expert Guidance
- Logical Reads vs. Physical ReadsIf you’ve spent time tuning SQL Server queries, you may have seen these two numbers side by side: logical reads and physical reads. Maybe you have seen one or the other be some absurdly high number and didn’t think much of it. But in reality they could be eye openers on behind the scenes query… Read More »Logical Reads vs. Physical Reads
- LCK_M_RIn_S_LOW_PRIORITY Wait Type on SQL ServerUnderstanding the LCK_M_RIn_S_LOW_PRIORITY Wait Type in SQL Server In SQL Server, understanding wait types is crucial for diagnosing performance issues and improving database efficiency. One of the less commonly encountered wait types that can impact performance is LCK_M_RIn_S_LOW_PRIORITY. Let’s dive into what it means, the context in which it occurs, and how to mitigate this… Read More »LCK_M_RIn_S_LOW_PRIORITY Wait Type on SQL Server
- August special – SQL Server Mentoring (and more)At Stedman Solutions, we strive to offer flexible consulting services to our clients, ranging from fixed-price projects to ongoing hourly work. Each approach caters to different needs, but today I want to shed light on one of our unique services that has proven particularly beneficial for our clients – our mentoring packages. Here’s how our… Read More »August special – SQL Server Mentoring (and more)
