A hands-on resource for SQL Server 2008 troubleshooting methods and tools SQL Server administrators need to ensure that SQL Server remains running 24/7. Authored by leading SQL Server experts and MVPs, this book provides in-depth coverage of best practices based on a deep understanding of the internals of both SQL Server and the Windows operating system. You'll get a thorough look at the SQL Server database architecture and internals as well as Windows OS internals so that you can approach troubleshooting with a solid grasp of the total processing environment. Armed with this comprehensive understanding, readers will then learn how to use a suite of tools for troubleshooting performance problems whether they originate on the database server or operating system side. Topics Covered: SQL Server Architecture Understanding Memory SQL Server Waits and Extended Events Working with Storage CPU and Query Processing Locking and Latches Knowing Tempdb Defining Your Approach To Troubleshooting Viewing Server Performance with PerfMon and the PAL Tool Tracing SQL Server with SQL Trace and Profiler Consolidating Data Collection with SQLDiag and the PerfStats Script Introducing RML Utilities for Stress Testing and Trace File Analysis Bringing It All Together with SQL Nexus Using Management Studio Reports and the Performance Dashboard Using SQL Server Management Data Warehouse Shortcuts to Efficient Data Collection and Quick Analysis