Chapter 1. Changes in the Database Paradigm: How SQL Server 2005 Redefines the Role of a DBA

IN THIS CHAPTER

• SQL Server Philosophy

• History

• SQL Server 2005 and Database Administrators

Microsoft SQL Server 2005 represents the completion of Microsoft SQL Server's transformation into a leading database management system. The changes are extensive, completing the capabilities required for the most demanding enterprise applications and introducing a new application paradigm that affects how many new SQL Server applications will be implemented and deployed.

A major upgrade such as SQL Server 2005 brings many benefits to customers. It greatly improves classic "abilities," such as availability, scalability, reliability, and so on. It introduces powerful new application development capabilities. Many of the rough spots in earlier versions of SQL Server have been polished. And many of the items long requested by the SQL Server community are now provided. SQL Server 2005 has something for everyone.

With any major advance comes challenges. In the case of SQL Server 2005, the challenge for a DBA is adapting to numerous changes from previous versions. Some of these changes fundamentally alter the mechanics of how DBAs interact with SQL Server; others are features with deep, long-term impact on how database applications are built and the demands they place on DBAs.

Before discussing the impact of these changes on DBAs, let's review the SQL Server philosophy and history. Then we'll look at the impact of some key changes in SQL Server 2005 on the DBA. Finally, we'll take a holistic look at these changes as part of the new application architecture.