This course provides in-depth knowledge and techniques for improving the performance of Microsoft SQL Server databases. Participants learn how to identify bottlenecks, optimize queries, configure SQL Server for peak performance, and monitor workloads to ensure efficiency and stability.
Performance tuning is a critical skill for database administrators and developers who need to ensure their SQL Server systems are fast, reliable, and scalable. This course takes you through the entire performance optimization lifecycle, from understanding execution plans to indexing strategies, resource management, and proactive monitoring. Through a combination of theory and hands-on labs, you’ll learn how to diagnose performance issues and apply best practices used in real enterprise environments.
About the instructor - Magi Naumova
Margarita Naumova is a very well-known SQL Expert. Magi holds the highest possible SQL Server Technical Certification in the field – Microsoft Certified Master, making her one of the best SQL Server Experts Worldwide. Magi is also a Microsoft Data Platform MVP (Most Valuable Professional). She has more than 20 years of SQL Server and BI technologies consulting and training experience and is a trusted advisor for many large companies in SQL Server Platform Area.
Currently she works as a Managing Partner and Chief SQL Architect of Inspir-it AS, her own newly established Consulting Company in Norway. Margarita is a regular speaker at the largest IT events, SQLBits, SQL Saturday in Europe.
Read more about Magi at Microsoft MVP website
Performance fundamentals
Participants start by gaining an understanding of key performance concepts and how SQL Server processes queries. This sets the foundation for optimization techniques.
Execution plan analysis
This section focuses on how to read and interpret execution plans to find inefficiencies and costly operations.
Indexing strategies
Participants learn how to design and implement indexes that improve query performance while balancing storage and maintenance overhead.
Query optimization
This topic covers techniques to optimize T-SQL queries through rewriting, plan hints, and understanding cardinality estimates.
Server and database configuration
Participants explore settings that affect SQL Server performance, including memory, CPU affinity, MAXDOP, and database-level options.
Monitoring and troubleshooting performance
This section focuses on using built-in tools like Performance Monitor, Dynamic Management Views (DMVs), Extended Events, and Wait Statistics to monitor performance and diagnose issues.
Advanced topics: memory, I/O, and CPU
Participants gain deeper insight into how memory allocation, I/O patterns, and processor usage impact SQL Server performance and how to tune these subsystems.
Workload optimization and baselining
This topic covers how to establish performance baselines, compare workloads over time, and use that information to plan tuning activities.
Practical information
- Duration: 5 days
- Price: 30 000 NOK
- Language: English
- Format: Available as open enrollment and in-company training
We arrange this training for your company or departement upon request. Please contact us for dates and prices: itpro@glasspaper.no
FAQ
Do I need to be an experienced DBA to take this course?
You should have foundational SQL Server knowledge. Beginners may find it challenging without prior exposure.
Is this course hands-on?
Yes. The course includes practical labs and real-world scenarios to reinforce learning.
Will this course help with certification?
This course is not tied to a formal certification but strengthens skills valued in performance-focused roles.
How long does the course last?
The course is typically delivered over three days.
What tools are used for performance monitoring?
Participants will use SQL Server monitoring tools, Dynamic Management Views, Performance Monitor, and Extended Events.
Can I use this course for cloud SQL Server environments?
Yes. Many principles apply to Azure SQL and hybrid deployments, though the focus remains on SQL Server.
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