chapter one

1 Introducing SQL Server

 

This chapter covers

  • What you should know about this book
  • The SQL Server index mistake (Mistake 0)
  • An overview of SQL Server
  • Why we should still care about SQL Server
  • Why getting SQL Server right matters

Over recent years, the DBA has become a catch-all term to describe anybody who works with databases. I always feel that this is doing something of a disservice to both the technology and the professionals who work with it. SQL Server is a massive product and complex data-tier applications require teams to have a range of competencies to harness its full power. Therefore, when we refer to DBA in this book, we will specifically be referring to Database Administrators.

We will cover topics relevant to people with the following roles:

  • Database Administrators (DBAs)
  • Database Developers
  • Extract, Transform & Load (ETL) Engineers

Although it may also be of interest to members of the following communities, if they have overlapping responsibilities:

  • Database Architects
  • Data warehouse Developers
  • Testers
  • Cyber Security Engineers
  • Business Intelligence (BI) Developers

1.1 The SQL Server Index Mistake (Mistake 0)

1.2 An Overview of SQL Server

1.2.1 Overview of the Database Engine

1.2.2 Heterogenous Platforms

1.3 Why we should still care about SQL Server

1.4 Why getting SQL Server right matters

1.5 Summary