Managing Files with SQL Server 2008's FILESTREAM Feature

SQL Server's new FILESTREAM feature simplifies the process of keeping file-based data, such as images, in sync with relational data.

SQL Server 2008 Installation Process

I have heard that the installation process for SQL Server 2008 differs from previous installation processes. So, how much different is the installation process? In this three-part tip series, we will review the installation process for SQL Server 2008, which differs quite a bit from SQL Server 2000 and SQL Server 2005 installations.

New data profiling tools in SQL Server 2008

New data-profiling tools native to SQL Server 2008 Integration Services such as the Data Profiling task and the Data Profiler Viewer help manage a business intelligence strategy.

Where is the Surface Area Configuration tool in SQL Server 2008

I just installed a new instance of SQL Server 2008 and I can't find the Surface Area Configuration tool that I used to use in SQL Server 2005. How can I manage the Database Engine features in SQL Server 2008?

Side by Side

Restore a SQL Server 2008 Database into SQL Server 2005

You likely will need to test data against SQL Server 2008 and SQL Server 2005, but ordinary backups are incompatible. Use SQL Server 2008's Generate SQL Server Scripts Wizard to push your SQL Server 2008 data back into SQL Server 2005.

SQL Server 2008 T-SQL Enhancements Part - I

SQL Server 2008 has a number of enhancements over 2005 that make it a more capable platform. New author Arshad Ali brings us an overview and some code about a few T-SQL changes.

Advanced new features in SSMS 2008

SQL Server Management Studio 2008 has several new features, including the T-SQL Debugger for easier debugging and a new Object Explorer Details window that's easier to use.

System Databases

SQL Server 2008 and Data Compression

One of the more exciting new features in SQL Server 2008 is data compression and Nicholas Cain talks a bit about how this works and how to determine if it fits in your environment.