For instance, if you copy a SQL 2000 database to SQL Server 2008, the new copy is an upgrade to the new internal format but retains a Compatibility Level of “80” which represents SQL 2000 aka SQL 8.0.

Many considerations go into evaluating whether it is time to implement an upgrade to a new version of SQL Server. You need to think about socket vs. core licensing ...

As SQL Server 2016 approaches end of support in July 2026, a look back at its groundbreaking innovations reveals how it reshaped Microsoft's data platform and why it's time to move forward.

A monthly overview of things you need to know as an architect or aspiring architect. Unlock the full InfoQ experience by logging in! Stay updated with your favorite authors and topics, engage with ...

There’s a very handy new tool from Microsoft called the Database Experimentation Assistant (DEA). The DEA makes it very easy to conduct A/B testing for SQL Server upgrades, providing quantitative ...

Brien M. Posey is a freelance technical writer who has contributed to dozens of books and is a six-time Microsoft MVP award winner. SQL Server 2005 reaches its end-of-life milestone on April 12, the ...

Russell Smith is a technology consultant and trainer specializing in management and security of Microsoft server and client technologies. He is a Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer with more than 15 ...