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Quest Spotlight / Iwatch

  • February 20, 2003 at 12:14 pm

    #58993

    Does anybody have any input on the effectiveness of Quest Software SQL Server database monitoring tools. We are in the process of evaluating the spotlight and Iwatch packages for SQL Server. The DBA group here has a good deal of experience with Oracle DB's but much less with SQL Server. Our goal is to be able to detect and prevent performance issues on SQL Server databases that are running vendor applications. Any input would be appreciated.

  • February 20, 2003 at 2:31 pm

    #449425

    It is a very good tool for visually looking at most all SQL Server and Windows OS related performance counters (the new version has the OS piece included). I have used it extensively and loved it. Price is not really bad. If you have the money, I say go for it.

    Rob DeMotsis

    Sr. SQL Server DBA


    Rob DeMotsis
    Sr. SQL Server DBA

  • February 20, 2003 at 3:44 pm

    #449431

    Usefull but does come at a price on Network and Hardware resources so be carefull there. Also, their licensing is explicit about setting up for one server (which you must tell them) and if you need to transfer to another server at any point you by EULA have to get permission. I had it out with them several months ago since I work in a mostly developement area and after testing I was concerned with putting against a Production server so this meant a test machine which meant server could change periodically. When I saw the EULA I about fell out and would not push personally for that reason.

    Also there was a freeware product with similar functionality that worked fine for me but I eventually moved on. SOrry I cannot find the link but I beleive it pops up here sometimes.

  • February 20, 2003 at 5:24 pm

    #449443

    Antares, are you thinking of SQLCheck from NetIQ?

    http://www.netiq.com/sqlcheck/

    It's not as full featured as SpotLight but it has the same sort of graphical interface. It's OK for highlighting problems, but doesn't offer anything more than that.

    Thanks

    Phill Carter

    --------------------

    Colt 45 - the original point and click interface

    --------------------
    Colt 45 - the original point and click interface

  • February 21, 2003 at 1:08 pm

    #449497

    We have used Quest's Spotlight for SQL and Spotlight for Windows for several months now.It offers a very clear and easy way to detect, monitor, and fix many OS, Network and Database Issues. It has great on-line suggestions for problems and gives drill down capability to more detailed graps and administration tools so you do not have to get out and get into Enterprise Manager to fix the problem. Quest is fantastic for Support too and we own many of their other products. My advise is go for it, they are offering a cheap license to get both now.

  • November 28, 2005 at 8:37 am

    #606129

    Hi,

    I am evaluating spotlight but loss as I don't have any help

    and don't find the help sufficient. I can see my blocking/lock

    session for a while, then it disppear.

    Plus, how do I use the information to improve my SP coding ?

    Anyone with above 02 helps, pls advise and comment.

    Thank you

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