SQL Server Indexing Hacks: Proven Strategies to Supercharge Query Performance

Indexing can make or break query performance. Choosing the right index can drastically speed up queries, while the wrong one can drag things down. However, not all indexes serve the same purpose—each type is optimized for specific workloads and scenarios. In this article, you are going to learn when to use heaps, clustered and non-clustered indexes, covering and filtered indexes, or columnstore indexes to optimize performance. Let’s explore how to make indexing work in your favor! [More]

SQL Server Indexes Explained: Clustered, Nonclustered, and Beyond

Indexes play a crucial role in optimizing database performance by allowing faster data retrieval. SQL Server provides various types of indexes, each designed to improve query performance based on different scenarios. In this article, we will explore the key index types, their characteristics, and how they help enhance query execution. [More]

SQL Server Monitoring Demystified: Mastering Index Optimization with sp_BlitzIndex

Indexes are the backbone of SQL Server performance, but poorly designed or maintained indexes can lead to slow queries and high I/O. Enter sp_BlitzIndex, a powerful tool from the SQL Server First Responder Kit designed to analyze and optimize indexes. Whether you are dealing with unused indexes, or missing indexes, sp_BlitzIndex provides the insights you need to keep your database running smoothly. In this article, we will explore how to use sp_BlitzIndex to master index optimization and improve query performance. [More]

SQL Server Monitoring Demystified: Find the Most Resource-Intensive Queries with sp_BlitzCache

Query performance tuning is a critical aspect of SQL Server administration, and identifying resource-intensive queries is the first step toward optimization. Enter sp_BlitzCache, a powerful tool from the SQL Server First Responder Kit designed to analyze query execution plans and pinpoint high-cost queries. Whether you’re dealing with slow queries, high CPU usage, or memory pressure, sp_BlitzCache provides the insights you need to take corrective action. In this article, we’ll explore how to use sp_BlitzCache to optimize query performance and keep your SQL Server running smoothly. [More]

SQL Server Monitoring Demystified: Real-Time Performance Monitoring with sp_BlitzFirst

In previous part of this series, you learnt about checking overall health of Sql Server. Now we will go through, real-time performance monitoring of SQL Server. When you face sudden slowdowns, high CPU usage, or unexplained bottlenecks, having a quick and efficient way to diagnose issues are essential. This is where sp_BlitzFirst, a tool from Brent Ozar’s SQL Server First Responder Kit, comes into play. [More]

SQL Server Monitoring Demystified: Part-1

Monitoring SQL Server is a critical aspect of database management, ensuring high performance, security, and availability. Though SQL Server has some built-in tools and commands, but you will not get any consolidate view or resolution from them. This article series explores a tool that can help you to monitor the performance and gain actionable insights of your SQL Server environment without putting extra load on your bank account. [More]