Welcome to the Stedman Solutions Blog: Your Go-To Resource for SQL Server Insights
If you’re a SQL Server enthusiast, an IT professional tasked with managing databases, or a business owner who relies on SQL Server for mission-critical applications, you’ve come to the right place. The Stedman Solutions Blog is designed to share practical, real-world knowledge and tips to help you get the most out of your SQL Server environment.
At Stedman Solutions, LLC, we’ve been working with SQL Server since 1990, focusing on performance tuning, troubleshooting, and long-term database health. This blog is an extension of that expertise, crafted to serve as a resource hub for the SQL Server community.
What You’ll Find on Our Blog
1. SQL Server Tips and Tutorials
From fundamental concepts to advanced topics like performance tuning and query optimization, we aim to demystify SQL Server with tutorials and examples. Whether you’re just getting started or are looking for expert insights, you’ll find articles tailored to your level of expertise.
2. Case Studies and Real-World Scenarios
Discover how our team has solved challenging SQL Server issues, including database corruption repair, performance bottlenecks, and high-availability configuration. These real-world stories illustrate the value of specialized SQL Server knowledge.
3. Best Practices for SQL Server Management
Learn strategies for keeping your SQL Server environment secure, reliable, and high-performing. From regular maintenance routines to disaster recovery planning, we’ll share actionable advice to protect your data.
4. Updates on SQL Server Tools and Features
Stay current with the latest developments in the SQL Server ecosystem. We’ll provide insights on new features, updates, and tools that can enhance your database operations.
5. Behind-the-Scenes Look at Stedman Solutions
We’re passionate about SQL Server, and our blog offers a glimpse into our projects, team culture, and the tools we use every day—like our Database Health Monitor, a free tool for monitoring and improving SQL Server performance.
Why Follow the Stedman Solutions Blog?
Our blog is more than just another technical resource. It’s a place where we share knowledge gained from decades of experience and hundreds of successful client engagements. By following our blog, you’ll gain insights that can:
- Help you solve SQL Server challenges faster.
- Prevent costly downtime and data loss.
- Enhance your skills with practical guidance.
Let’s Get Started!
We invite you to explore our latest posts and subscribe to stay updated. Whether you’re interested in proactive SQL Server management, advanced tuning techniques, or simply looking to keep your environment running smoothly, the Stedman Solutions Blog is here to help.
For more in-depth support or to learn about our Managed Services, contact us today. Let’s take the stress out of SQL Server management together!
Explore our blog today at Stedman Solutions Blog. Let’s build better databases, one post at a time!
- Login Auditing Stedman SQL Podcast Sn 3 Ep 9Login Auditing Stedman SQL Podcast Sn 3 Ep 9 In this episode of the Stedman SQL Server Podcast, Steve and George Stedman compare two powerful native SQL Server options for login auditing: SQL Server Audit and Extended Events. They explain why auditing logins matters for compliance requirements such as SOX, PCI, and HIPAA, demonstrate how… Read More »Login Auditing Stedman SQL Podcast Sn 3 Ep 9
- SQL Server Database Integrity: Importance and Corruption Prevention TipsWhen it comes to managing a SQL Server environment, ensuring SQL Server Database Integrity and SQL Server Database Corruption Prevention is paramount to the health and reliability of your data. Database integrity refers to the accuracy, consistency, and trustworthiness of the information stored within your system. Without it, businesses risk encountering data Corruption, which can… Read More »SQL Server Database Integrity: Importance and Corruption Prevention Tips
- TSQL Output Clause CourseThe output clause is one of the wow factor query items, where when people see you use it the just go WOW, I did not know you could do that. I can remember working with a client and showing that to them and getting that same reaction of WOW. Have you seen our SQL short… Read More »TSQL Output Clause Course
- Honoring those who have died while servingIn observance of the US federal holiday Memorial day, and in memory of all who have died in service, Stedman Solutions, LLC will be closed for the last Monday in May. If you need emergency help during this time, you can reach us through the contact us form, or for existing customers just contact one… Read More »Honoring those who have died while serving
- How to Identify and Fix Parameter Sniffing Issues in SQL ServerParameter sniffing occurs when the SQL Server query optimizer creates an execution plan for a stored procedure or parameterized query based on the specific parameter values supplied during the first execution. This plan is then cached and reused for all subsequent calls, regardless of whether later parameter values would benefit from a different strategy. The… Read More »How to Identify and Fix Parameter Sniffing Issues in SQL Server
- Protecting SQL Server Data: Backup and Disaster Recovery Best PracticesThe Ultimate SQL Server Backup Strategy: Protecting Your Data from Disaster and Corruption In today’s data-driven world, SQL Server databases form the backbone of countless business operations, making the protection of that information a top priority for IT teams and decision makers alike. A single instance of data loss from hardware failure, ransomware, or unexpected… Read More »Protecting SQL Server Data: Backup and Disaster Recovery Best Practices
- Choosing the Right SQL Server Backup Type for Your EnvironmentChoosing the Right SQL Server Backup Type for Your Environment One of the most common questions I hear when working with clients is: “How do we choose the right backup type based on database size, workload, and recovery needs?” It is an important question because the right SQL Server backup strategy needs to balance recovery… Read More »Choosing the Right SQL Server Backup Type for Your Environment
- Understanding HTDELETE Wait Type in SQL Server: Causes and SolutionsWhat is the HTDELETE Wait Type? When it comes to SQL Server Optimization tuning, identifying and resolving wait types is a fundamental step for database administrators. Among the myriad of wait types that can impact system performance, HTDELETE stands out as a lesser-known but significant indicator of specific internal operations. This blog post dives into… Read More »Understanding HTDELETE Wait Type in SQL Server: Causes and Solutions
- Optimize Your SQL Server with Stedman Solutions’ Monitoring & Managed ServicesEnsuring your SQL Server operates at its best is a top priority for any business relying on data-driven decisions. Downtime, sluggish performance, or unexpected issues can derail operations and frustrate stakeholders. At Stedman Solutions, we understand these challenges and offer a comprehensive approach to SQL Server management through our Monitoring and Managed Services, designed to… Read More »Optimize Your SQL Server with Stedman Solutions’ Monitoring & Managed Services
- Understanding LCK_M_U and LCK_M_X Wait Types in SQL Server Performance TuningWhen it comes to SQL Server Optimization tuning, understanding the intricacies of Wait Statistics is crucial for identifying and resolving bottlenecks. Among the myriad of wait types that can hinder database performance, LCK_M_U (Update Lock) and LCK_M_X (Exclusive Lock) stand out as frequent culprits. These wait types signal locking conflicts that can stall query execution,… Read More »Understanding LCK_M_U and LCK_M_X Wait Types in SQL Server Performance Tuning
- Introducing the Rewards Program for Database Health MonitorIntroducing the Rewards Program for Database Health Monitor At Stedman Solutions, we’ve always looked for ways to say thank you to everyone using Database Health Monitor. With the launch of the new Rewards Program, we now have a way to give you even more value the longer you use the product. The idea came from… Read More »Introducing the Rewards Program for Database Health Monitor
- Understanding WRITELOG Wait Type in SQL Server: Causes, Impacts, and SolutionsDelving into the intricacies of SQL Server performance often leads to uncovering hidden bottlenecks, and one of the most critical to understand is the WRITELOG wait type. This specific wait type can significantly impact the efficiency of your database operations, as it signals delays in writing transaction log data to disk. Whether you’re managing a… Read More »Understanding WRITELOG Wait Type in SQL Server: Causes, Impacts, and Solutions
- Managed Service Stedman SQL Podcast Sn 3 Ep 8Managed Services Stedman SQL Podcast Sn 3 Episode 8 The podcast episode discusses Stedman Solutions’ SQL Server managed services offering, highlighting its unique approach and benefits. Key points include the team’s extensive experience, the availability of multiple team members for 24/7 coverage, and the comprehensive support provided for a flat fee. The team emphasizes proactive… Read More »Managed Service Stedman SQL Podcast Sn 3 Ep 8
- Why Is My SQL Server Slow? 8 Common Causes and SolutionsAre you constantly asking yourself, “Why is my SQL Server slow?” If so, you’re in good company. Performance hiccups in SQL Server can grind business processes to a halt, frustrate end-users, and create bottlenecks in critical systems. The good news is that most performance issues are identifiable and fixable with a systematic approach to troubleshooting.… Read More »Why Is My SQL Server Slow? 8 Common Causes and Solutions
- Why You Should Never Enable Auto Shrink in SQL ServerWhy You Should Never Enable Auto Shrink in SQL Server One of the common configuration mistakes I still see in SQL Server environments is Auto Shrink enabled on databases. It sounds harmless—maybe even helpful—but in reality, Auto Shrink can create serious performance problems and unnecessary work for your SQL Server. In fact, if you take… Read More »Why You Should Never Enable Auto Shrink in SQL Server
- SQL Code Smells: Implicit ConversionsYou run a query against a table. The column is indexed. The statistics are fresh. And yet the query does a full scan, takes ten times longer than it should, and you have no idea why. The code looks correct. The data looks correct. Nothing looks wrong. The culprit is a single mismatched data type,… Read More »SQL Code Smells: Implicit Conversions
- Enhancing SQL Server Troubleshooting: Terminate Open Transactions Directly from the ReportEnhancing SQL Server Troubleshooting: Terminate Open Transactions Directly from the Report In the world of SQL Server administration, few things are as frustrating as stumbling upon a long-running or forgotten transaction that’s quietly causing chaos. It might be blocking other processes, preventing log truncation, bloating your transaction log, or even simulating a “jammed” server in… Read More »Enhancing SQL Server Troubleshooting: Terminate Open Transactions Directly from the Report
- Daily Monitoring ProductA great way to keep tabs on the overall health of your SQL Server. Pricing: $129.99 per month per SQL Server instance when paid month to month. Payment on a recurring payment by credit card plan required. We provide monitoring tools that alert us when there is an issue so that we can recommend fixes… Read More »Daily Monitoring Product
- Guardians of Your Data: Understanding the Critical Role of a Database AdministratorFind out more about our SQL Server Managed Services In an age where data is the new gold, managing this treasure trove efficiently is paramount to a business’s success. A robust data management system lays the foundation for informed decision-making, smooth operations, and strategic growth plans. At the helm of this intricate system stands a… Read More »Guardians of Your Data: Understanding the Critical Role of a Database Administrator
- Dangers of Removing IndexesIn the world of database management, maintaining optimal performance is an ongoing challenge. One crucial aspect that often gets overlooked is the management of indexes. While indexes can significantly enhance query performance, having too many of them can lead to issues when it comes to inserts, updates, and deletes. In this blog post, we’ll explore… Read More »Dangers of Removing Indexes
- Why Blindly Trusting the SQL Server Database Tuning Advisor Can Hurt PerformanceWhy Blindly Trusting the SQL Server Database Tuning Advisor Can Hurt Performance If you have worked with SQL Server for any length of time, you have probably encountered the Database Tuning Advisor (DTA). It is one of those built-in tools that sounds incredibly helpful. You point it at a workload, and it analyzes queries and… Read More »Why Blindly Trusting the SQL Server Database Tuning Advisor Can Hurt Performance
- Elevate Your SQL Server Monitoring with Our Daily Checkup ServiceWe’re thrilled to announce some enhancements to our SQL Daily Checkup service that promises to provide your SQL servers with the most comprehensive health evaluation in the market.Find out more at Stedman Solutions.com https://stedman.us/dailycheckup. Our SQL Daily Checkup service has been designed to serve as an advanced monitoring tool, helping you identify potential issues on… Read More »Elevate Your SQL Server Monitoring with Our Daily Checkup Service
- Implicit Converts The Silent Performance Killer in SQL Server Stedman SQL Podcast Sn 3 Ep 7Implicit Converts The Silent Performance Killer in SQL Server Stedman SQL Podcast Sn 3 Ep 7 Steve Stedman and George discuss implicit conversions in SQL Server, highlighting their impact on performance. Steve explains that implicit conversions occur when data types don’t match, forcing SQL Server to convert columns, which can slow queries significantly. They demonstrate… Read More »Implicit Converts The Silent Performance Killer in SQL Server Stedman SQL Podcast Sn 3 Ep 7
- Stop Guessing When SQL Agent Jobs Run: Visualizing Job History with Sortable Timeline ChartsStop Guessing When SQL Agent Jobs Run: Visualizing Job History with Sortable Timeline Charts This blog post idea centers on a problem every SQL Server DBA has faced at some point: trying to understand when SQL Agent jobs actually run and how often they fire. It often starts with a simple question such as what… Read More »Stop Guessing When SQL Agent Jobs Run: Visualizing Job History with Sortable Timeline Charts
- Implementing the Principle of Least Privilege in SQL Server: A Step-by-Step Guide to Securing Your DatabasesImplementing the Principle of Least Privilege in SQL Server: A Step-by-Step Guide to Securing Your Databases In the world of database security, few concepts are as foundational—and as frequently overlooked—as the principle of least privilege (POLP). This principle simply states that users, applications, and processes should only have the minimum permissions required to perform their… Read More »Implementing the Principle of Least Privilege in SQL Server: A Step-by-Step Guide to Securing Your Databases
- Master Data Aggregation in SQL Server: Learn Grouping and Windowing FunctionsAggregating Data in Your SQL Server Unlock the full potential of SQL Server with a deep dive into data Aggregation techniques. In this blog post, titled “Master Data Aggregation in SQL Server: Learn Grouping and Windowing Functions,” we will explore the powerful tools and methods that can transform the way you handle data. Whether you’re… Read More »Master Data Aggregation in SQL Server: Learn Grouping and Windowing Functions
- Join Types ShirtWelcome to April at Stedman Solutions, LLC! This month, we’re excited to announce that April is JOINS month, where all our promotions and activities will revolve around the fundamental concept of JOINs in SQL Server. Whether you’re a seasoned SQL professional or just starting out on your database journey, this is the perfect time to… Read More »Join Types Shirt
- My Join Types CourseWelcome to April at Stedman Solutions, LLC! This month, we’re excited to announce that April is JOINS month, where all our promotions and activities will revolve around the fundamental concept of JOINs in SQL Server. Whether you’re a seasoned SQL professional or just starting out on your database journey, this is the perfect time to… Read More »My Join Types Course
- SQL Server Compatibility Levels Explained: Guide to Settings and UpgradesUnderstanding SQL Server Compatibility Levels In the world of SQL Server, compatibility levels play a crucial role in ensuring that your database applications run smoothly even after upgrading to a newer version of SQL Server. By understanding and managing these compatibility levels, you can avoid potential issues and leverage new features while maintaining stability and… Read More »SQL Server Compatibility Levels Explained: Guide to Settings and Upgrades
- Join Types Poster on your wallWelcome to April at Stedman Solutions, LLC! This month, we’re excited to announce that April is JOINS month, where all our promotions and activities will revolve around the fundamental concept of JOINs in SQL Server. Whether you’re a seasoned SQL professional or just starting out on your database journey, this is the perfect time to… Read More »Join Types Poster on your wall
- SQL Server Upgrades: Why Build and Migrate Is My Go-To ApproachSQL Server Upgrades: Why Build and Migrate Is My Go-To Approach When it comes to upgrading SQL Server, I almost always recommend one approach over the others: build a new server and migrate. It may sound like more work—and it is—but there’s a good reason for it. After decades of working with SQL Server, I’ve… Read More »SQL Server Upgrades: Why Build and Migrate Is My Go-To Approach
- SQL Server Join Types: A Guide to MasteryWelcome to April at Stedman Solutions, LLC! This month, we’re excited to announce that April is JOINS month, where all our promotions and activities will revolve around the fundamental concept of JOINs in SQL Server. Whether you’re a seasoned SQL professional or just starting out on your database journey, this is the perfect time to… Read More »SQL Server Join Types: A Guide to Mastery
- Stedman SQL Podcast Season 3 Episode 6 Database Health Monitor Recap and UpdatesStedman SQL Podcast Season 3 Episode 6 Database Health Monitor Recap and Updates In this episode of the Stedman SQL Podcast (Season 3, Episode 6), Steve Stedman is joined by Mitchell Glasscock and George Stedman to dive into the latest 2026 Q1 updates to Database Health Monitor. They break down new quality-of-life improvements like enhanced… Read More »Stedman SQL Podcast Season 3 Episode 6 Database Health Monitor Recap and Updates
- Join Types Shower CurtainWelcome to April at Stedman Solutions, LLC! This month, we’re excited to announce that April is JOINS month, where all our promotions and activities will revolve around the fundamental concept of JOINs in SQL Server. Whether you’re a seasoned SQL professional or just starting out on your database journey, this is the perfect time to… Read More »Join Types Shower Curtain
- Why Running DBCC FREEPROCCACHE Is Usually a Bad Idea for Performance TroubleshootingWhy Running DBCC FREEPROCCACHE Is Usually a Bad Idea for Performance Troubleshooting Every once in a while I run into a situation where a vendor recommends something that makes me pause. Recently I was working with a client who had a third-party application running on SQL Server. They were experiencing performance problems in production, so… Read More »Why Running DBCC FREEPROCCACHE Is Usually a Bad Idea for Performance Troubleshooting
- SQL Server Joins with Our Free PosterWelcome to April at Stedman Solutions, LLC! This month, we’re excited to announce that April is JOINS month, where all our promotions and activities will revolve around the fundamental concept of JOINs in SQL Server. Whether you’re a seasoned SQL professional or just starting out on your database journey, this is the perfect time to… Read More »SQL Server Joins with Our Free Poster
- Joins – Inner vs Left Outer vs Right OuterWelcome to April at Stedman Solutions, LLC! This month, we’re excited to announce that April is JOINS month, where all our promotions and activities will revolve around the fundamental concept of JOINs in SQL Server. Whether you’re a seasoned SQL professional or just starting out on your database journey, this is the perfect time to… Read More »Joins – Inner vs Left Outer vs Right Outer
- SQL Server Corruption Class: Learn to Prepare and Respond EffectivelySQL Server Corruption Class – Learn How to Prepare and React SQL Server corruption can strike at any moment, leaving your critical data inaccessible and your business operations in disarray. Whether caused by hardware failures, software glitches, or human error, the consequences of database corruption are often severe. Our SQL Server Corruption Class is designed… Read More »SQL Server Corruption Class: Learn to Prepare and Respond Effectively
- April is Join Types MonthWelcome to April at Stedman Solutions, LLC! This month, we’re excited to announce that April is JOINS month, where all our promotions and activities will revolve around the fundamental concept of JOINs in SQL Server. Whether you’re a seasoned SQL professional or just starting out on your database journey, this is the perfect time to… Read More »April is Join Types Month
- Finding Long Running Queries in SQL ServerYou usually don’t notice a slow query right away. What you do notice is everything else starting to lag. Dashboards take longer to load, jobs start overlapping, and suddenly users are asking what changed. Long running queries are often at the center of that. The good news is they’re not hard to track down when… Read More »Finding Long Running Queries in SQL Server
- World Backup Day with Stedman’s SQL SchoolCelebrating World Backup Day with Stedman’s SQL School: Unlock the Secrets of Efficient Backup and Recovery As we mark World Backup Day on March 31st, it’s a timely reminder of the critical importance of data backups in our increasingly digital world. In the realm of database management, particularly with SQL Server, the significance of having… Read More »World Backup Day with Stedman’s SQL School
- Embrace Efficiency and Growth: The Integrated Power of Managed ServicesEmbrace Efficiency and Growth: The Integrated Power of Managed Services In today’s fast-evolving business landscape, organizations are constantly seeking ways to optimize their operations, scale efficiently, and ensure the robust management of their critical IT infrastructure. Stedman Solutions offers a suite of Managed Services designed to address these core needs, emphasizing the essential role of… Read More »Embrace Efficiency and Growth: The Integrated Power of Managed Services
- Understanding WRITE_COMPLETION Wait Type in SQL Server: Performance Impacts and SolutionsIn the realm of SQL Server Performance tuning, identifying and resolving wait types is a critical skill for database administrators. Among these, the WRITE_COMPLETION wait type often goes unnoticed, yet it can reveal underlying issues with your disk I/O subsystem. This blog post aims to shed light on what WRITE_COMPLETION means, why it matters, and… Read More »Understanding WRITE_COMPLETION Wait Type in SQL Server: Performance Impacts and Solutions
- Sleep Better With Our SQL Server Managed ServicesFinding Peace of Mind with SQL Server Managed Services As the owner or manager of a business that relies on SQL Server for critical data management and operations, the thought of your SQL Server encountering issues during the off-hours can be a significant source of stress. The fear of waking up to a server crash,… Read More »Sleep Better With Our SQL Server Managed Services
- Stedman SQL Podcast Season 3 Episode 5 The 7 Deadly Sins of Index and Statistics MaintenanceStedman SQL Podcast Season 3 Episode 5 The 7 Deadly Sins of Index and Statistics Maintenance Steve Stedman and Mitchell Glasscock discuss the seven deadly sins of index and statistics maintenance in SQL Server. They highlight common mistakes such as blindly rebuilding or reorganizing all indexes nightly, adhering to outdated 5% and 30% fragmentation rules,… Read More »Stedman SQL Podcast Season 3 Episode 5 The 7 Deadly Sins of Index and Statistics Maintenance
- Monitor Your SQL Server for Under $10/Month with Database Health MonitorIt’s 3:00 AM on a Tuesday morning and your phone starts buzzing on the nightstand. The website is down, the ERP system is crawling, or the checkout process is timing out. We’ve all been there: that sinking feeling in your stomach as you realize you’re about to spend the next four hours hunting for a… Read More »Monitor Your SQL Server for Under $10/Month with Database Health Monitor
- What is a SQL Server SubQueryWhat is a SQL Query Subquery? A subquery (also known as an inner select or nested query) is a query nested inside another SQL query. It allows you to build more complex queries by embedding one SELECT statement within another. Subqueries can help solve problems that require multiple steps or aggregations, and they enable you… Read More »What is a SQL Server SubQuery
- The Challenges of Relying Solely on an In-House DBAThe Challenges of Relying Solely on an In-House DBA: Insights from Stedman Solutions In the fast-paced world of IT, the database is the backbone of any organization, storing critical data that drives decision-making and operational efficiency. However, managing a database is no small feat, and many companies rely on a dedicated Database Administrator (DBA) to… Read More »The Challenges of Relying Solely on an In-House DBA
- SQL Server Performance Tuning: 5 Proven Ways to Find Long Running QueriesHave you ever sat staring at a spinning wheel in your application, knowing deep down that a SQL Server query is currently eating your server alive? We’ve all been there. It’s that sinking feeling when the CPU is pegged at 100%, users are starting to call the help desk, and you need answers right now.… Read More »SQL Server Performance Tuning: 5 Proven Ways to Find Long Running Queries
- Revolutionize Your Projects with our Dynamic Team of Database and Software ExpertsWith a technical team of 5 people with well over 100 years of combined experience we are available to help with your next project. Our team of highly experienced Database Administrators (DBAs) and programmers is uniquely qualified to support and elevate your projects. They bring an array of expertise to the table, each with their… Read More »Revolutionize Your Projects with our Dynamic Team of Database and Software Experts
- Cut Costs Without Compromising QualityCut Costs Without Compromising Quality: Outsource Server Maintenance with Managed Services and Watch Your Savings Grow Welcome back, fellow data enthusiasts! Today, we’re diving into a topic that’s not only crucial for your business but also a game-changer in the world of database management: outsourcing server maintenance with Managed Services. At Stedman Solutions, we understand… Read More »Cut Costs Without Compromising Quality
- The Real Cost: In-House Team vs. Stedman SolutionsThe Real Cost of SQL Server Management: In-House Team vs. Stedman Solutions When managing your SQL Server environment, you’re faced with a critical decision: Should you build an in-house team, or should you outsource to specialists like Stedman Solutions? Let’s dive into the financial implications of both options to determine where your investment will provide… Read More »The Real Cost: In-House Team vs. Stedman Solutions
- Database Health Monitor for Monitoring SQL Server PerformanceIn the world of SQL Server management, performance monitoring isn’t just a best practice—it’s a necessity. The right tools can be the difference between a smooth-running system and one plagued by bottlenecks, slowdowns, or even crashes. Enter Database Health Monitor: a tool designed specifically with SQL Server in mind, and one that stands out as… Read More »Database Health Monitor for Monitoring SQL Server Performance
- Mastering the TSQL Output Clause: Enhance SQL Server Skills with Auditing and Change TrackingIf you’re looking to elevate your SQL Server expertise, mastering the TSQL Output Clause is a game-changer. This often-underutilized feature allows you to capture and return data from INSERT, UPDATE, and DELETE operations, opening up new possibilities for auditing and change tracking. Whether you’re a database administrator or a developer, understanding how to harness this… Read More »Mastering the TSQL Output Clause: Enhance SQL Server Skills with Auditing and Change Tracking
- Stedman SQL Podcast Season 3 Episode 4 SQL Server UpgradesStedman SQL Podcast Season 3 Episode 4 SQL Server Upgrades Steve Stedman and Mitchell Glasscock discuss SQL Server upgrades, comparing in-place upgrades versus new server migrations. They highlight the importance of upgrading due to end-of-life security risks, such as SQL Server 2016’s July cutoff. In-place upgrades are quicker but riskier, with potential downtime and limited… Read More »Stedman SQL Podcast Season 3 Episode 4 SQL Server Upgrades
- Scale Your BusinessScale Your Business Worry-Free! Partner with Stedman Solutions’ Managed Services and Reclaim Your Time. In today’s fast-paced and unpredictable economy, scaling a business is both an inspiring ambition and a daunting challenge. As companies push to expand their reach, they face a complex web of obstacles—none more critical than effective data management. The ability to… Read More »Scale Your Business
- March is Peace of Mind MonthIntroducing Peace of Mind Month Stedman Solutions proudly presents Peace of Mind Month, a dedicated initiative designed to bring you confidence, satisfaction, and unwavering reassurance for your SQL Server through our industry-leading Managed Services. In a world where technology drives business success, we’re here to ensure your database isn’t just a tool—it’s a foundation for… Read More »March is Peace of Mind Month
- 10 Reasons Your SQL Server Is Crawling (and How to Find Long Running Queries with Database Health Monitor)It’s an unremarkable Tuesday afternoon: until the emails start hitting your inbox. "The application is lagging." "The reports won't load." "The database feels like it's stuck in molasses." We’ve all been there. As the owner of Stedman Solutions, I've spent over 30 years working with SQL Server, and if there is one thing I’ve learned… Read More »10 Reasons Your SQL Server Is Crawling (and How to Find Long Running Queries with Database Health Monitor)
- Why DBCC FREEPROCCACHE Can Be BadIf you’re a database administrator or developer working with Microsoft SQL Server, you’ve likely come across the command DBCC FREEPROCCACHE. At first glance, it might seem like a handy tool for clearing out the procedure cache to resolve performance issues or force fresh query plans. However, using this command without fully understanding its implications can… Read More »Why DBCC FREEPROCCACHE Can Be Bad
- Master SQL Server Replication: Comprehensive Training Class for Database ProfessionalsWelcome to our comprehensive guide on mastering database management with our latest offering, the SQL Server Replication Course. Designed for both beginners and seasoned professionals, this course dives deep into the intricacies of SQL Server replication, a critical skill for ensuring data availability, scalability, and Disaster Recovery in modern IT environments. Whether you’re looking to… Read More »Master SQL Server Replication: Comprehensive Training Class for Database Professionals
- SQL Server do I need Enterprise or StandardChoosing the right edition of SQL Server for your organization can be a daunting decision, especially when weighing the options between Enterprise and Standard. Both editions offer robust features for database management, but they cater to different needs, budgets, and scalability requirements. Understanding the key differences between SQL Server Enterprise and Standard is crucial to… Read More »SQL Server do I need Enterprise or Standard
- Stedman SQL Podcast Season 3 Episode 3 Database Health Monitor Rewards ProgramStedman SQL Podcast Season 3 Episode 3 Database Health Monitor Rewards Program In this episode of the Stedman SQL Podcast (Season 3, Episode 3), Steve Stedman and Mitchell Glasscock introduce the new Database Health Monitor Rewards Program, launched with Version 3 of Database Health Monitor. They explain how paid subscribers can unlock exclusive monthly rewards—including… Read More »Stedman SQL Podcast Season 3 Episode 3 Database Health Monitor Rewards Program
- SQL Server Join Type Class by Steve StedmanWelcome to an insightful journey into the world of SQL Server join types! If you’re looking to deepen your understanding of database querying and optimization, you’re in the right place. In this class led by Steve Stedman, a seasoned expert in SQL Server performance tuning, we’ll explore the intricacies of join operations, a fundamental concept… Read More »SQL Server Join Type Class by Steve Stedman
- Differences with REPAIR_REBUILD and REPAIR_ALLOW_DATA_LOSSUnderstanding DBCC CHECKDB: REPAIR_REBUILD vs REPAIR_ALLOW_DATA_LOSS DBCC CHECKDB is an essential tool for checking the consistency of a SQL Server database. When Corruption is detected, it offers two key repair options: REPAIR_REBUILD and REPAIR_ALLOW_DATA_LOSS. Each serves distinct purposes and has significant differences. Best Practices for Using These Options Always Use BACKUPs First: Restore from a… Read More »Differences with REPAIR_REBUILD and REPAIR_ALLOW_DATA_LOSS
- Discovering Stedman SolutionsDiscover Stedman Solutions: Your Go-To for SQL Server Management Welcome to a journey of innovation and excellence with Stedman Solutions! If you’re seeking cutting-edge strategies to elevate your business or personal projects, you’ve landed in the right place. Stedman Solutions is more than just a name; it’s a promise of tailored, impactful solutions designed to… Read More »Discovering Stedman Solutions
- Exclusive SQL Performance Tuning TrainingSteve and the team at Stedman Solutions, LLC have put together an email based performance tuning course where each week you can get tips and tricks to get more performance out of your SQL Server. Become part of this exclusive group of subscribers learning to put the horse power back into their SQL Server. What… Read More »Exclusive SQL Performance Tuning Training
- Unlocking SQL Server HierarchyID Performance: Is Your Tree Structure Dragging You Down?If you're managing organizational charts, file systems, category trees, or any hierarchical data in SQL Server, you've probably run into the hierarchyid data type. It's powerful, elegant, and: when done right: incredibly efficient. But when done wrong? It can turn your database into a crawling nightmare. I've seen it happen more times than I can… Read More »Unlocking SQL Server HierarchyID Performance: Is Your Tree Structure Dragging You Down?
- Overview of our Classes at Stedman SQL SchoolWelcome to Stedman SQL School, where we are passionate about empowering individuals with the skills to master database management and SQL programming. Our institution is dedicated to providing top-tier education for aspiring data professionals, whether you’re a beginner looking to understand the basics or an experienced developer aiming to refine your expertise. With a curriculum… Read More »Overview of our Classes at Stedman SQL School
- Silent Merge Replication Failures: When "Green" Doesn't Mean "Synced"You check your Replication Monitor. Everything's green. The latency looks good, the transaction count is normal, and there's not a single error message in sight. You breathe easy, your disaster recovery site is perfectly in sync, right? Wrong. We've seen this scenario play out too many times over our 20+ years managing SQL Server environments.… Read More »Silent Merge Replication Failures: When "Green" Doesn't Mean "Synced"
- Corruption Stories with Steve and DerrickGrab a blanket and get comfortable. It’s story time with Steve Stedman and Derrick Bovenkamp! In this 10 min video they will share with you database corruption stories. From these stories hopefully you’ll learn what not to do. Things to watch out for to avoid server corruption. Transcription: Steve Stedman 0:04Let’s roll onto the corruption… Read More »Corruption Stories with Steve and Derrick
- SQL Server 2025 Max Degree of Parallelism: Why DOP Feedback Changes Everything (And What to Do About It)Let me ask you something: how many hours have you spent trying to find the “perfect” MAXDOP setting for your SQL Server environment? If you’re like most DBAs we’ve worked with over the past two decades, the answer is probably “way too many.” You tweak it up, queries get faster but CPU usage spikes. You… Read More »SQL Server 2025 Max Degree of Parallelism: Why DOP Feedback Changes Everything (And What to Do About It)
- Stedman SQL Podcast Sn 3 Ep 2 5 Things to Never Do with SQL ServerStedman SQL Podcast Season 3 Episode 2 5 Things to Never Do with SQL Server Welcome to the Stedman SQL Podcast Season 3, Episode 2, hosted by Steve Stedman and joined by Mitchell Glasscock from the Stedman Solutions team, where we dive into “5 Things You Should Never Do with SQL Server (Plus 2 Bonus… Read More »Stedman SQL Podcast Sn 3 Ep 2 5 Things to Never Do with SQL Server
- SQL Server 2025 Upgrade Checklist: 7 Breaking Changes DBAs Need to Know (Before It's Too Late)SQL Server 2025 is here, and if you’re a DBA or IT manager planning an upgrade, you need to know this: Microsoft didn’t just add features: they made some serious breaking changes that could take your production environment offline if you’re not prepared. I’ve been working with SQL Server since the early days, and this… Read More »SQL Server 2025 Upgrade Checklist: 7 Breaking Changes DBAs Need to Know (Before It's Too Late)
- Shrinking Databases – Pros, Cons and RecommendationsShrinking databases is a topic that often sparks debate among database administrators and developers. On one hand, reducing the size of a database can free up valuable storage space and potentially improve performance by minimizing the overhead of managing large, unused data files. On the other hand, the process comes with risks and drawbacks that… Read More »Shrinking Databases – Pros, Cons and Recommendations
- February: The Month of Performance at Stedman Solutions!February: The Month of Performance at Stedman Solutions! February is here, and at Stedman Solutions, LLC, we’re declaring it Performance Month! As a seasoned expert in SQL Server since 1990, I’m excited to share exclusive opportunities this month to turbocharge your SQL Server’s performance. Here are three pivotal ways you can participate in Performance Month… Read More »February: The Month of Performance at Stedman Solutions!
- Why Choosing Stedman Solutions is a Cost-Effective Alternative to Hiring a Full-Time DBAIntroduction In the digital age, effectively managing your SQL Server has never been more critical. You might think that employing a full-time Database Administrator (DBA) is the only way to go, but have you considered outsourcing SQL Server management to a specialized Managed Services Provider (MSP) like us, Stedman Solutions? Below we will delve into… Read More »Why Choosing Stedman Solutions is a Cost-Effective Alternative to Hiring a Full-Time DBA
- Stedman SQL Podcast Season 3 Episode 1 What Will You Do Different This YearStedman SQL Podcast Season 3 Episode 1 What Will You Do Different This Year Steve Stedman and Shannon Lindsay discuss SQL Server security and performance improvements for the new year. They highlight a 16% discount for new managed service customers and emphasize the importance of enforcing the principle of least privilege, implementing data encryption, and… Read More »Stedman SQL Podcast Season 3 Episode 1 What Will You Do Different This Year
- The Guardians of Your Data: Understanding the Critical Role of a Database AdministratorFind out more about our SQL Server Managed Services In an age where data is the new gold, managing this treasure trove efficiently is paramount to a business’s success. A robust data management system lays the foundation for informed decision-making, smooth operations, and strategic growth plans. At the helm of this intricate system stands a… Read More »The Guardians of Your Data: Understanding the Critical Role of a Database Administrator
- SQL Server Managed Services for On-Prem, Azure, AWS, and Hybrid EnvironmentsStedman Solutions January Managed Services Promotion You don’t have to choose between on-premises, Azure, AWS, or a hybrid setup to get world-class SQL Server management.Our all-inclusive SQL Server Managed Services cover every platform you run today — and every platform you might run tomorrow — with one flat monthly price and one team that already… Read More »SQL Server Managed Services for On-Prem, Azure, AWS, and Hybrid Environments
- READ COMMITTED With RCSIUnderstanding SET TRANSACTION ISOLATION LEVEL READ COMMITTED When RCSI is Enabled in SQL Server If you’ve ever dealt with concurrency issues in SQL Server—blocking, deadlocks, or frustrated users waiting on queries—you’ve probably heard about Read Committed Snapshot Isolation (RCSI). It’s a game-changer for many OLTP workloads. But what exactly happens when you run SET TRANSACTION… Read More »READ COMMITTED With RCSI
- SQL Server Managed Services: Solid Backups and RestoresEnsuring Data Security with Stedman Solutions SQL Server Managed Services: Solid Backups and Restores In today’s data-driven world, the integrity and availability of data are paramount. For businesses relying on SQL Server for their critical data storage and management, ensuring solid backups and reliable restores is not just an option, it’s a necessity. This is… Read More »SQL Server Managed Services: Solid Backups and Restores
- The Unmatched Value of Stedman Solutions Managed ServicesNavigating SQL Server Management: The Unmatched Value of Stedman Solutions’ Managed Services In the ever-evolving landscape of database management, businesses are continually seeking reliable, efficient, and cost-effective solutions to ensure their SQL Server environments are running at peak performance. As the owner of Stedman Solutions, LLC, I’ve seen the challenges and costs that organizations face… Read More »The Unmatched Value of Stedman Solutions Managed Services
- Proactive Monitoring in a World of Constant ChangeThe Power of Proactive Monitoring in a World of Constant Change As the world continually evolves, the need for robust and proactive solutions in the realm of IT managed services becomes ever more critical. In an environment where a single change can have cascading effects, businesses cannot afford to be reactive. This is where Stedman… Read More »Proactive Monitoring in a World of Constant Change
- Your Success, Our Mission: Discover the Potential of our DBAs and Software DevelopersWith a technical team of 5 people with well over 100 years of combined experience we are available to help with your next project. Our team of highly experienced Database Administrators (DBAs) and programmers is uniquely qualified to support and elevate your projects. They bring an array of expertise to the table, each with their… Read More »Your Success, Our Mission: Discover the Potential of our DBAs and Software Developers
- Kickstart The Year with Peak SQL Server Performance – 12 Months for the Price of 10Exclusive January Promotion: Get 12 Months of Managed Services for the Price of 10 Happy New Year! To give your databases the strongest possible start this year, we’re running our biggest offer of the year: Sign up for SQL Server Managed Services any time in January and receive 12 months of full-service support for the… Read More »Kickstart The Year with Peak SQL Server Performance – 12 Months for the Price of 10
- Happy New YearHappy new year from Stedman Solutions, LLC. As we celebrate another year, Stedman Solutions would like to let you know that we will be there to help you with any of your SQL Server needs. We have just completed a great year helping clients with everything from corruption repair, to SQL Server upgrades, to custom… Read More »Happy New Year
- Indexing for Performance Video by SteveWelcome to our latest discussion on optimizing database performance with a focus on a must-watch resource: the “Indexing for Performance Video” by Steve. If you’ve ever struggled with slow query execution or wondered how to make your database operations more efficient, this video is a game-changer. Steve, a seasoned expert in database management, breaks down… Read More »Indexing for Performance Video by Steve
- DBCC FREEPROCCACHE Can Be BadIf you’re a database administrator or developer working with Microsoft SQL Server, you’ve likely come across the command DBCC FREEPROCCACHE. At first glance, it might seem like a handy tool for clearing out the procedure cache to resolve performance issues or force query plans to recompile. However, using this command without fully understanding its implications… Read More »DBCC FREEPROCCACHE Can Be Bad
- Is Your SQL Server Running Smoothly During the HolidaysKeep Your SQL Server Running Smoothly During the Holidays with Stedman Solutions’ Managed Services Contact us to find out how Stedman Solutions can help with your SQL Server environment. The holiday season is here, and with it comes the well-deserved breaks and vacations for many in the IT industry. However, SQL Servers don’t take holidays.… Read More »Is Your SQL Server Running Smoothly During the Holidays
- Merry ChristmasMerry Christmas from the team at Stedman Solutions, LLC. Our offices will be closed to celebrate Christmas this year.
- The Christmas Query: A SQL Server Holiday StoryIt was Christmas Eve, and Santa was busy at the North Pole managing his massive toy database. Santa’s Workshop ran on a robust SQL Server setup, but tonight the server was struggling. The elves crowded around the monitors, their faces lit by the glow of the Database Health Monitor dashboard. “Santa,” said Ellie, the chief… Read More »The Christmas Query: A SQL Server Holiday Story
- CPU Drill-Down FeatureCPU Drill-Down Feature in Database Health Monitor A powerful capability has arrived in Database Health Monitor, making CPU troubleshooting faster and more intuitive. For years, DBAs relied on two separate views: CPU by Database and CPU by Query. Each provided insight, but there was no direct connection between them. That changes now. The Problem: Lack… Read More »CPU Drill-Down Feature
- Leading Wildcards in SQL LIKE ClausesNeed help with this or anything relating to SQL Server? The team at Stedman Solutions can help. Find out how with a free no risk 30 minute consultation with Steve Stedman. SQL is a powerful tool for querying and managing data, and one of its most versatile features is the LIKE clause. Often used in… Read More »Leading Wildcards in SQL LIKE Clauses
- Visualizing SQL Agent Job History with Database Health MonitorWelcome to our latest exploration into the world of database management and optimization. Today, we’re diving into a powerful tool for database administrators: visualizing SQL Agent Job History with the help of Database Health Monitor. SQL Agent Jobs are crucial for automating routine tasks in SQL Server environments, but tracking their performance and identifying issues… Read More »Visualizing SQL Agent Job History with Database Health Monitor
- Stedman SQL Podcast Season 2 Ep 29 Database Health Monitor Recap 2025Stedman SQL Podcast Season 2 Episode 29 Database Health Monitor Recap 2025 Database Health Monitor: All the Exciting Features Added in 2025! Join Steve Stedman and lead developer Mitchell Glasscock as they recap an incredible year of updates to Database Health Monitor, the ultimate SQL Server monitoring tool. From December’s Structure Change Log (track who… Read More »Stedman SQL Podcast Season 2 Ep 29 Database Health Monitor Recap 2025
- Digging Into SQL Server Performance Monitor: Real-Time Insights That MatterDigging Into SQL Server Performance Monitor: Real-Time Insights That Matter One of the most valuable tools built into Database Health Monitor is the SQL Server Performance Monitor. This feature originated from real client work. Whenever a client contacts us with an urgent “we have a performance issue right now,” this is the first place we… Read More »Digging Into SQL Server Performance Monitor: Real-Time Insights That Matter
- Backup and Recovery Self-Assessment for SQL ServerAssessing SQL Server Backup and Recovery Readiness: A Must-Do for IT Managers and DBAs In today’s digital-first environment, ensuring the resilience and reliability of your SQL Server databases is not just recommended; it’s imperative. At Stedman Solutions, we understand the critical role that backups, recovery, and business continuity play in maintaining your organization’s health. That’s… Read More »Backup and Recovery Self-Assessment for SQL Server
- Faster, Smarter Automation with the Latest Command-Line Updates in Database Health MonitorEvery year around audit and compliance season, support tickets start arriving with the same urgent theme: DBAs need a fully automated, completely hands-off way to produce the same comprehensive SQL Server health reports they normally generate manually inside the Database Health Monitor GUI — but without ever having to open the application. They wanted to… Read More »Faster, Smarter Automation with the Latest Command-Line Updates in Database Health Monitor
- Mastering Block Mode Select in SQL Server Management StudioWhen writing or editing SQL scripts, small features in SQL Server Management Studio can make a huge difference in productivity. One of the most overlooked tools is Block Mode Select. Many developers never realize how much time it can save until they start using it. Block Mode Select allows you to select text in a… Read More »Mastering Block Mode Select in SQL Server Management Studio
- Mastering Replication with SQL ServerWelcome to our dive into the world of database management with a focus on Mastering SQL Server Replication. If you’re looking to enhance your skills in ensuring data availability, scalability, and reliability across distributed systems, you’ve come to the right place. SQL Server Replication is a powerful feature that allows you to copy and distribute… Read More »Mastering Replication with SQL Server
