Microsoft SQL Server Links
All the information you want or need to know about SQL Server is available online. But tracking down and consuming that information is very time consuming. These links to technical information will help you find the necessary information. But the time to digest it all? That'a a different story...Finding the technical information you need - when you need it - is critical to keeping productivity high. These links provide a wealth of information about using Microsoft SQL Server.
Microsoft Links
Microsoft is the provider of SQL Server. Their official documentation should be the starting point of any inquiry regarding the product.
- Microsoft SQL Server homepage
- Microsoft SQL Server Development Center on Technet
- Microsoft SQL Server TechCenter on MSDN
- Books Online - the definitive SQL Server reference material
- Microsoft TechNet Webcasts
Professional Organizations for Microsoft SQL Server
Many professionals dedicate their time to providing relevant information about SQL Server. Membership in professional organizations provides an opportunity to explore as well as give information.
Microsoft SQL Server Information Websites
Many talented and generous people spend a great deal of their time gathering and disseminating relevant information on SQL Server. These links are to some of the best information sites on the web. The sites contain articles, whitepapers, videos and sample code to help you understand, manage and get the most out of SQL Server.
- SSWUG - SQL Server Worldwide Users Group
- SQL Magazine
- SQL Customer Advisory Team
- SQL Skills
- Simple Talk
- SQL Server Central
- SQL-Server-Performance
- SQLServerPedia
- SQLDTS
- SQLIS
- SQLTeam
- SQL Server Customer Advisory Team
WhitePapers on Microsoft SQL Server
Many of these sites sell products or services related to SQL Server. They also provide answers - free of charge! But don't underestimate why they took the time and effort to create their productivity tools. They will save you much time and money and we can all use that kind of help.
- Quest Software - my favorite tool vendor. Be sure to checkout Spotlight on SQL Server. It is an amazing tool that can save you time and your job!
Free Blogs on Microsoft SQL Server
Blogs have evolved into some of the most up to date and useful information sources. Also, they are sometimes the only source of certain complex technical issues about SQL Server. Not nearly as structured as a whitepaper, they remain a valuable resource to be utilized during your 'SQL Sleuthing on the web'.
- Technet Blogs on Microsoft SQL Server
- SQL Server Engine Team Blog
- Microsoft PSS SQL Server Engineers
Books on Microsoft SQL Server
Ahhh! There is nothing quite like spending a weekend (or 4!) with a nice 1,200 page book packed with detailed information on your favorite database platform. Be sure to also pickup some flowers and the latest Wii game so your family gets as much enjoyment from them as you will.
Benchmarking SQL Server
Information on accurately benchmarking database engine performance in Microsoft SQL Server.
