Does Your SQL Server Need a Check Up?

Those of us with a health conscious mindset understand the need for proactive care. They eat well, exercise, and get check ups before getting sick. When it comes to your information technology systems, the same approach should be taken. Just like vitamins, a healthy diet, and hitting the gym can help prevent illness, a SQL server health check is a great way to keep your IT environment functioning the way it should.

What is SQL Server?

A Microsoft SQL server is a critical component of your IT environment that is used as a database system for storing information. It often works in tandem with your core business apps, such as SharePoint, CRM, and other business systems that rely on stored information. While overall server health is important, an outdated or misconfigured SQL environment can be a major concern for your systems and your business.

Why is SQL Server Important?

Given that your core business applications may rely on SQL server, it is important to make sure that your SQL servers receive some love and attention. Older versions of SQL server that are unsupported by Microsoft can be a major risk for your business, as not having up-to-date fixes and patches can  lead to a data leak or even downtime. Furthermore, SQL server should be configured by a certified Database Administrator (DBA) to make sure that all Microsoft Best Practices are being followed. Below is a list of common issues that may arise due to a neglected SQL server:

• Lack of properly installed anti-virus
• Event log errors
• Insufficient disk space
• Improper administration tools
• Backup issues
• Poor configurations

How Can I Check the Health of My SQL Server Environment?

Much like finding the right doctor, the “who” is just as important as the “what.” A SQL server environment should be properly reviewed by a DBA with experience configuring and building SQL servers. A proper SQL Health Check will look at your environment and ask the following questions:

• Is your environment configured to Microsoft Best Practices?
• Is your environment secure?
• Are misconfigurations and errors negatively impacting your userbase?
• Are proper backups being utilized?
• Are there any downtime risks?

A healthy and secure SQL environment is major step towards keeping your IT environment functioning properly. Remember, proactive maintenance is usually cheaper than reactive support.