AWS-RDS SQL Server limitations

On-prem to AWS RDS SQL Server has some differences. Processes need to be reviewed Read more →

How to fix BACKUP LOG cannot be performed because there is no current database backup

The Backup team shared a warning message for SQL Server backup of a read only db Read more →

How to capture SQL Server database RESTORE details with Extended Events

Troubleshooting a slow restore using Extended Events Read more →

How to find physical path for SQL Server backup on Container

Question: I'm migrating some SQL Server databases to Openshift Containers. The SQL Server is set up with persistent disk , with a dedicated persistent disk partition for the SQL Server defaultbackup directory. I don't have access to the underlying files via command line and can only use command line. How can I get the physical disk device , which will then allow me to create a RESTORE DATABASE statement pointing to the device? Answer: Assuming you've taken the BACKUP DATABASE with at at least one backup device , such as this example , which backups to the default backup directory... Read more →

How to fix the two most common causes of SQL Server BACKUP LOG Failures

There are some repeat questions I get from Backup or Operations staff - when they receive alerts for a BACKUP LOG failure. There are multiple reasons it could be happening ranging from media failure , human error, software failure ,and SQL Server database status issues e.g OFFLINE Let's leave those to one side for a moment and assume they are all ok . The two main reasons are; 1) the initial database FULL BACKUP not taken and 2) the database in SIMPLE RECOVERY mode 1) Initial FULL BACKUP not executed when database is in FULL RECOVERY mode Msg 4214, Level... Read more →