Depending on what type of DBA you are, you might find yourself using different database tools, but the most important tool (in my opinion) is SSMS – also known as SQL Server Management Studio.
SSMS is part of the SQL Server client toolset. SQL Server does work without the client tools being installed and the client tools can be installed on a computer that doesn’t have SQL Server installed on it. The client tools are typically installed as part of the SQL Server installation. If you don’t see them, don’t panic. Just grab the DVD (or .msi install file) and alter your SQL Server install to include them.
NOTE: Before installing the client tools on multiple computers, make sure you have the proper licensing. Microsoft is really picky about these things and you don’t want to get fined for overusing the software.
Once SSMS is installed, it can be found under the Start -> Programs -> Microsoft SQL Server menu as “SQL Server Management Studio.” The icon is a little wrench-crossing-a-hammer with a little yellow cylinder in the upper left hand corner (a database symbol). When you open it up, the default settings will ask you to connect to a database. The connect box looks like this:
SSMS is the GUI (Graphical User Interface) most DBAs use for managing all the working parts of SQL Server. It does not manage everything, but it covers the essentials: Instances, Databases, Security, Server Objects, Resources, object properties, SQL Agent objects, Database Mail, Jobs, Integration Services (management only), Analysis Services (management only), and a lot more. SSMS has an Object Explorer which can be used to monitor and check all of the above, a summary window (also called the Object Explorer Details) which focuses on all items within a specific instance, and query windows (as many as you can deal with) which can be used to write and run T-SQL and some CLR code.
In my experience, SSMS is THE power tool of SQL Server database administration. I’m a “jack of all trades” DBA and SSMS is what I use 90% of the time. I always have at least 2 copies open on my desktop, one in each monitor. Knowing how to get around in SSMS is essential for any type of DBA, and learning it is the first step in becoming a DBA. It’s also a lot easier than writing T-SQL in BIDS or Visual Studio (in my opinion).
If you’re interested in more information, Microsoft has a SSMS tutorial here. Stay tuned to SQL Saturdays for more information on the SQL Server database tools.
