In SQL Server 2017, when the query optimizer encounters code with a multi-statement TVF, the query optimizer will pause optimization, execute the TVF subtree to get a very accurate cardinality ...

One of the most common problems when running SQL Servers is slow queries. The help desk or database team usually hears that described as the application is slow or ...

Last time, I discussed how to get PowerShell and SQLPS up and running on your machines. And much like my dog chasing its tail, you're probably asking yourself, "Now that I have it, what do I do with ...

SQL Server 2025 delivers major performance upgrades alongside licensing changes that can reshape both operational speed and budget strategy. Smarter query execution, refined CPU scheduling, and better ...

Azure SQL vs SQL Server in 2026: compare cost, features, AI, and migration paths, plus when Managed Instance beats Azure VM in one clear framework.

As I discussed in an earlier column, SQL Server keeps a plan cached for each query it sees (assuming the query requires planning in the first place, of course). That's great for speeding up processing ...

SQL Server 2016 lets you treat JSON objects like rows in a table, allowing you to use data from AJAX queries in joins, updates and any other SQL statement you can think of. SQL Server 2016 provides ...

Microsoft has just added support for query hints to Azure SQL Database, giving database administrators a powerful tool to manage the performance of ISV application code. Here's how it works. Database ...

Microsoft SQL Server's relational engine has offered new instrumentation that improves by light years with each new release. The introduction of Dynamic Management Views (DMVs) in SQL Server 2005 ...