How to Backup SQL Database (and Why Most Backups are Doomed to Fail)
Most organisations have backups running but still cannot restore when it matters. Learn the correct way to back up SQL Server and avoid the mistakes that create a false sense of security.
Read article →
Query Plan Confusion? When It’s Time to Call a SQL Server Consultant
Slow queries cost real money. Learn how to read SQL Server execution plans, tackle common performance issues, and recognise when a specialist can help.
Read article →
How to Check Your SQL Server Version and Edition
Six reliable methods to find your exact SQL Server version and build number, from a quick T-SQL query to SSMS server properties and the Windows control panel.
Read article →
Critical Security Updates Released to Address SQL Injection Risks
Microsoft has released critical GDR updates fixing SQL injection vulnerabilities inside SQL Server's own system stored procedures. Here is what DBAs need to act on now.
Read article →
SQL Server CASE WHEN: 5 Practical Ways to Use It
The CASE WHEN statement is one of the most versatile tools in T-SQL. This guide covers five practical ways to use it in real SQL Server environments.
Read article →
Understanding NULL in SQL: What It Means (And Doesn’t)
NULL is one of the most misunderstood concepts in SQL Server. Learn what it actually means and how to handle it correctly in your queries.
Read article →
SQL vs. Other Databases: Choosing the Right Database Matters
Choosing between SQL and NoSQL databases affects performance, scalability and maintenance costs. Learn which database type suits your business workloads.
Read article →
Why You Need Professional SQL Support for Your Business
Without professional SQL Server support, database problems go undetected until they cause outages. Learn what a dedicated DBA delivers that generalist IT staff cannot.
Read article →
How Does Microsoft Copilot Help with SQL Query Optimisation?
Microsoft Copilot can accelerate SQL work by generating T-SQL, identifying missing indexes, and improving query structure. Here is what it actually does and where its limits are.
Read article →
Essential Security Updates for SQL Server Versions 2016 to 2022
Microsoft's late-2024 SQL Server GDR updates fix CDC regressions introduced in September 2024, not new vulnerabilities. Here is what that means for your patching strategy.
Read article →
Critical Security Patch: Preventing Remote Code Execution
Microsoft has issued emergency GDR security updates for SQL Server 2022, 2019 and 2017 to address a critical remote code execution vulnerability in the SQL Server connection driver.
Read article →
“Latest Updates: SQL Server 2019 CU21 and 2022 CU5 Released”
Microsoft released SQL Server 2019 CU21 and 2022 CU5 in June 2023, fixing over 30 bugs including memory leaks and query correctness issues affecting production environments.
Read article →