MS SQL Server Installation Best Practices for DBAs :
As a DBA, a successful SQL Server installation is more than just running the setup wizard. It requires careful planning and execution to ensure the server's performance, security, and maintainability. Here are key best practices to keep in mind during your next SQL Server installation:
🔹 1. Pre-installation Planning:
Choose the correct edition (Express, Standard, Enterprise) based on workload and business needs.
Verify hardware requirements (CPU, RAM, disk) and ensure compatibility with your OS.
Plan the storage layout: Keep data files, log files, and backups on separate disks to improve performance.
🔹 2. Choose the Correct SQL Server Collation:
Set the correct server collation during installation, especially if supporting multiple languages or legacy systems. Changing it later can be challenging.
🔹 3. Set Service Accounts:
Always use dedicated domain accounts for SQL Server services (SQL Server Engine, SQL Agent). Avoid using Local System or built-in accounts to improve security.
🔹 4. Optimize TempDB Configuration:
Pre-configure TempDB with multiple data files (one per CPU core, up to 8) to reduce contention.
Place TempDB on fast storage (SSD, if available) for better performance.
🔹 5. Configure Memory Settings:
Limit max server memory to avoid starving the OS. By default, SQL Server uses all available memory, which can cause performance issues on the host.
🔹 6. Ensure Proper Security:
Disable the SA login or rename it for security reasons.
Use Windows Authentication as the primary authentication mode.
Set up strong passwords and roles for users.
🔹 7. Backup and Recovery Strategy:
Set up full, differential, and log backups immediately after installation to secure your data.
Test your backups periodically by performing restore drills.
🔹 8. Enable Important Features:
Enable Instant File Initialization to speed up database file growth.
Enable SQL Server Agent for automation of jobs like backups and index maintenance.
🔹 9. Patch SQL Server:
After installation, apply the latest SQL Server service packs and cumulative updates to ensure the server is secure and performs optimally.
🔹 10. Post-Installation Configuration:
Configure database maintenance plans for regular backups, index maintenance, and integrity checks (DBCC CHECKDB).
Set up performance monitoring using DMVs and SQL Server performance counters.
Following these best practices ensures your SQL Server is optimized for performance, security, and scalability from day one!
