DBA’s Guide to SQL Server CPU Performance Analysis

CPU performance plays a critical role in the responsiveness and scalability of SQL Server. When CPU resources are overwhelmed, even well-optimized queries and tuned indexes may not deliver expected performance. Understanding how SQL Server utilizes CPU, identifying bottlenecks, and analyzing workload patterns are essential tasks for any DBA aiming to maintain a high-performing environment.

This guide walks you through the fundamentals of CPU behavior in SQL Server, the key metrics to monitor, common causes of CPU pressure, and practical strategies for diagnosing and resolving CPU-related issues. [More]