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As SQL Server databases grow and evolve, staying on top of performance, security, and reliability can be a big challenge. The following are some best practices in SQL Server Database configuration that will help you keep your databases running smoothly and efficiently.
Take Advantage of Indexing
Properly indexing your database can be the difference between queries running in seconds and queries running in minutes. In general, all columns used in JOIN, WHERE, and ORDER BY clauses should be indexed. Look for frequently used tables and columns in your database for indexing opportunities.
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CREATE INDEX idx_column ON table (column); |
Keep Database Statistics Up-to-date
Statistics are crucial for SQL Server performance; they guide the SQL Server query optimizer to choose the most efficient plan to execute queries. Ensuring these statistics are current is vital, otherwise SQL might choose a poor execution plan, causing performance issues.
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EXEC sp_updatestats; |
Separate your Data and Log Files
Separate your data and log files onto different physical drives. This can increase the performance of the SQL Server as it does not need to switch back and forth between performing a data operation and a log operation.
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ALTER DATABASE your_database ADD LOG FILE ( NAME = log_file_name, FILENAME = 'path\log_filename.ldf', SIZE = size [ , maxsize ] [ , filegrowth ] ); |
Secure your Database
Limit the people who have access to the database and provide minimum necessary permissions. Encrypting your database is also an important aspect of database security.
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CREATE MASTER KEY ENCRYPTION BY PASSWORD = 'your_password'; CREATE CERTIFICATE your_certificate WITH SUBJECT = 'your_subject'; CREATE DATABASE ENCRYPTION KEY WITH ALGORITHM = AES_256 ENCRYPTION BY SERVER CERTIFICATE your_certificate; ALTER DATABASE your_database SET ENCRYPTION ON; |
Regular Backups
Regular backups of your database protect the data from being lost in case of an unexpected failure. Also, consider maintaining backup copies geographically distant infrastructures to protect against catastrophic events.
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BACKUP DATABASE your_database TO DISK = 'path\your_database.bak' WITH FORMAT, MEDIANAME = 'your_media_set', NAME = 'your_backup_set'; |
In conclusion, database configuration is a continuous process and needs periodic revisions to maintain optimum performance, security, and reliability. By following these best practices, you can make sure your SQL Server Databases are ready for whatever comes their way.