How To Begin Your Career As a SQL Server DBA from Udemy

What's inside

Learning objectives

A the end of this course you'll know what it positions are starting roles for sql server dbas
You'll learn how to sift through job descriptions specific to your level of expertise.

You learn what a day in the life of a dba looks like.

A the end of this course you'll know what it positions are starting roles for sql server dbas
You'll learn how to sift through job descriptions specific to your level of expertise.
You learn what a day in the life of a dba looks like.

Syllabus

What Does A SQL Server DBA Do? Let's Define The Various Roles.

Starting is often one of the hardest parts.

SQL Server is a massively complicated product.

Where do we start?

In this lecture we'll learn what's going to be covered in this course.

Let's discuss if this course is for you.

A little about me.

This is where you start.

In it's most basic form a database is a collection of objects.

The most important being the table object.

The table object stores structured data.

Let's learn about the very basics in this lecture.

There's no shortcut on these.

In order to understand relational databases we have to fully understand the ACID properties.

It's one of the pillars relaional databases are built on.

Just a quick overview of what we covered in the first section.

All versions of SQL Server have free versions that have limitations.

It gives those who want to learn SQL Server a chance to work with most of the same functionality of enterprise versions.

This version is called SQL Server Express.

In this lecture we are going to learn how to download and install it.

With each release of SQL Server Microsoft will often have different editions of SQL Server.

When you are deciding on which edition to choose make sure you find our what the editions are for each version.

There is no guarantee SQL Server 2014 will have the same editions as SQL Server 2016 or SQL Server 2018.

When you install Microsoft SQL Server, several system databases are automatically created on every SQL Server instance.

The configuration manager allows us to restart services and manage protocols.

Let's wrap up what we've covered in this course.

As SQL Server DBAs we will spend most of our time working inside SQL Server Management Studio or SSMS.

In this lecture we will learn the basics of manipulating our objects inside SSMS.

What is a table and how do we create one in SSMS and transact.

In this lesson we will continue to learn about our table object.

Let's learn about data types in this lesson.

SQL Server supplies a set of system data types that define all the types of data that can be used with SQL Server.

The fundamental unit of data storage in SQL Server is the page. The disk space allocated to a data file (.mdf or .ndf) in a database is logically divided into pages numbered contiguously from 0 to n. Disk I/O operations are performed at the page level. That is, SQL Server reads or writes whole data pages.

Let's wrap up what we've covered in this lesson.

In this lecture we will discuss the tow kinds of transact-sql.

The SELECT statement is the most often used piece of code in SQL Server.

Let's learn what it does.

DML stands for Data Manipulation Language.

There are only 4 core statements used for the majority of our transactions.

Let's cover what they are.

Let's wrap up what we've covered.

In this lesson we are going to learn how to create logins at the server level then map those logins to databases at the database level.

Let's cover the very basics of what a SQL Server database is. All SQL Server databases must have 2 files. Each database must have one data file and one log file.

All production databases should be in FULL recovery and transaction log backups should be in place. Let's take a look at what our options are here.

SQL Server has three major types of backups.

A full backup.

A differential backup.

A transaction log backup.

Let's discuss the different types in this lesson.

Without a full backup there is no restore. This minute long audio is the very foundation to our restores.

In this lecture let's demo the different kinds of backups. We will start with the full and then work our way to the differential and finally the transaction log backup.

It would be ideal to have have FULL backups nightly but as our databases grow into VLDBs (Very Large Databases), that isn't always possible.

Fortunately, we have differential backs to assist us.

We start with a full backup then restore our transaction logs up to the point where the failure took place.

Transaction logs provide us with an up to the minute (if we set them up that way) ability to recover our databases.

We have lots of ways to set up our backups but for those that are new to SQL Server, the wizard approach gives us a step by step GUI to configure them.

Companies have different retention policies. Many like the 3 days on disk approach. No matter what methodology you use you'll want to remove older .bak and .trn files.

Let's talk about real world backup strategies.

Ideally, I like the idea of having FULL backups nightly. Sometime that's not possible so we have to craft a plan that's right for our environment.

Let's wrap up what we've covered in this section.

Thank you for taking my course!!!

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Explores skills, knowledge, and tools that are core to SQL Server Database Administration

Taught by experts in SQL Server Database Administration

Develops skills, knowledge, and tools that are highly relevant to SQL Server Database Administration

Teaches SQL, which is standard in the IT industry

Examines concepts that are highly relevant to IT professionals

Introduces topics appropriate for students without background knowledge

Reviews summary

Foundational guide for aspiring sql server dbas

According to students, this course serves as an excellent starting point for those looking to embark on a career as a SQL Server DBA. Learners find it to be short and straight to the point, providing a clear overview of a DBA's daily routine and essential responsibilities. The lectures on critical tasks like backing up and restoring databases are particularly highlighted as foundational. While it effectively lays the groundwork for a DBA career, students should note it is designed as an introductory course, focusing on core concepts rather than advanced topics or comprehensive job search strategies.

Benefits learners with a basic understanding of IT fundamentals.

"It felt like having a foundation in networks, databases, and programming really helped me get the most out of it."

"While it touches on database basics, I think having some prior IT knowledge really helped me keep up."

"As a learner completely new to IT, I found the pace quick in some sections."

Serves as a foundational guide, not a comprehensive deep dive.

"This course provides direction to begin the journey, not to become a senior expert overnight."

"It's a good starting point, but I know I'll need to learn much more for advanced topics."

"Don't expect in-depth coverage of complex performance tuning or advanced programming."

Focuses on core, indispensable DBA tasks like backups.

"The section on backing up and restoring is crucial; it's the most important thing we do."

"I appreciate the demos for different backup types, making it easy to follow along."

"Learning to install SQL Server Express for practice was very helpful for hands-on learning."

Provides clear direction for starting a SQL Server DBA career.

"This is one of the best courses I have taken... the best course to understand DBA jobs before going into more depth."

"I found it really helped me understand what a day in the life of a DBA truly looks like."

"It clarifies starting roles and how to approach specific job descriptions."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in How To Begin Your Career As a SQL Server DBA with these activities:

Follow tutorials on SQL Server administration

Show steps

Gain hands-on experience and reinforce learning by following step-by-step tutorials on various aspects of SQL Server administration.

Browse courses on SQL Server

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Search for online tutorials or courses on SQL Server administration.
Choose tutorials that cover topics relevant to your interests or skill level.
Follow the instructions in the tutorials carefully.
Practice the concepts and techniques learned in the tutorials.

Practice SQL queries

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Develop proficiency in writing SQL queries to retrieve and manipulate data, which is a fundamental skill for SQL Server DBAs.

Browse courses on SQL

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Download and install a free version of SQL Server, such as SQL Server Express.
Create a new database and tables.
Practice writing SELECT, INSERT, UPDATE, and DELETE queries.
Use online resources or tutorials to find additional practice exercises.

Create a database diagram

Show steps

Enhance understanding of database structure and relationships by visually representing the database schema.

Browse courses on Database Design

Show steps

Use a database design tool or software to create a visual diagram.
Include all tables, columns, and relationships in the diagram.
Review the diagram to ensure accuracy and completeness.
Share the diagram with others for feedback and discussion.

Show all three activities

Career center

Learners who complete How To Begin Your Career As a SQL Server DBA will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Database Administrator

Database Administrators are responsible for the design, implementation, support and maintenance of databases. They ensure that data is accurate, secure, and accessible to users. This course provides a foundation in the fundamentals of SQL Server, which is one of the most popular database management systems in the world. By taking this course, you will gain the skills and knowledge needed to become a successful Database Administrator.

See salaries and explore the career path for Database Administrator

Data Analyst

Data Analysts use data to solve problems and make informed decisions. They collect, analyze, and interpret data to identify trends and patterns. This course provides a foundation in the fundamentals of SQL Server, which is a powerful tool for data analysis. By taking this course, you will gain the skills and knowledge needed to become a successful Data Analyst.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Analyst

Business Intelligence Analyst

Business Intelligence Analysts use data to improve business performance. They identify opportunities for growth, develop strategies to improve efficiency, and measure the impact of business decisions. This course provides a foundation in the fundamentals of SQL Server, which is a powerful tool for business intelligence. By taking this course, you will gain the skills and knowledge needed to become a successful Business Intelligence Analyst.

See salaries and explore the career path for Business Intelligence Analyst

Software Engineer

Software Engineers design, develop, and maintain software applications. They work with a variety of programming languages and technologies to create software that meets the needs of users. This course provides a foundation in the fundamentals of SQL Server, which is a popular database management system used in a variety of software applications. By taking this course, you will gain the skills and knowledge needed to become a successful Software Engineer.

See salaries and explore the career path for Software Engineer

Web Developer

Web Developers design and develop websites and web applications. They work with a variety of programming languages and technologies to create websites that are user-friendly, efficient, and secure. This course provides a foundation in the fundamentals of SQL Server, which is a popular database management system used in a variety of web applications. By taking this course, you will gain the skills and knowledge needed to become a successful Web Developer.

See salaries and explore the career path for Web Developer

IT Manager

IT Managers are responsible for the planning, implementation, and management of IT systems and services. They ensure that IT systems are aligned with business goals and that they meet the needs of users. This course provides a foundation in the fundamentals of SQL Server, which is a popular database management system used in a variety of businesses. By taking this course, you will gain the skills and knowledge needed to become a successful IT Manager.

See salaries and explore the career path for IT Manager

Network Administrator

Network Administrators are responsible for the design, implementation, and maintenance of computer networks. They ensure that networks are secure, reliable, and efficient. This course provides a foundation in the fundamentals of SQL Server, which is a popular database management system used in a variety of network environments. By taking this course, you will gain the skills and knowledge needed to become a successful Network Administrator.

See salaries and explore the career path for Network Administrator

Systems Analyst

Systems Analysts study the needs of businesses and organizations and design solutions to meet those needs. They work with a variety of stakeholders to develop and implement systems that improve efficiency and productivity. This course provides a foundation in the fundamentals of SQL Server, which is a popular database management system used in a variety of business systems. By taking this course, you will gain the skills and knowledge needed to become a successful Systems Analyst.

See salaries and explore the career path for Systems Analyst

Database Architect

Database Architects design and implement database systems. They work with a variety of stakeholders to develop databases that meet the needs of users and businesses. This course provides a foundation in the fundamentals of SQL Server, which is a popular database management system used in a variety of industries. By taking this course, you will gain the skills and knowledge needed to become a successful Database Architect.

See salaries and explore the career path for Database Architect

Data Scientist

Data Scientists use data to solve problems and make informed decisions. They work with a variety of data sources and technologies to identify trends and patterns. This course provides a foundation in the fundamentals of SQL Server, which is a powerful tool for data science. By taking this course, you will gain the skills and knowledge needed to become a successful Data Scientist.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Scientist

Statistician

Statisticians collect, analyze, and interpret data to make informed decisions. They work with a variety of data sources and technologies to identify trends and patterns. This course provides a foundation in the fundamentals of SQL Server, which is a powerful tool for statistical analysis. By taking this course, you will gain the skills and knowledge needed to become a successful Statistician.

See salaries and explore the career path for Statistician

Actuary

Actuaries use data to assess risk and financial implications. They work with a variety of data sources and technologies to develop models and forecasts. This course provides a foundation in the fundamentals of SQL Server, which is a powerful tool for actuarial science. By taking this course, you will gain the skills and knowledge needed to become a successful Actuary.

See salaries and explore the career path for Actuary

Financial Analyst

Financial Analysts use data to make informed decisions about investments and financial planning. They work with a variety of data sources and technologies to develop models and forecasts. This course provides a foundation in the fundamentals of SQL Server, which is a powerful tool for financial analysis. By taking this course, you will gain the skills and knowledge needed to become a successful Financial Analyst.

See salaries and explore the career path for Financial Analyst

Market Researcher

Market Researchers collect, analyze, and interpret data to understand consumer behavior. They work with a variety of data sources and technologies to identify trends and patterns. This course provides a foundation in the fundamentals of SQL Server, which is a powerful tool for market research. By taking this course, you will gain the skills and knowledge needed to become a successful Market Researcher.

See salaries and explore the career path for Market Researcher

Operations Research Analyst

Operations Research Analysts use data to improve the efficiency of operations and processes. They work with a variety of data sources and technologies to develop models and forecasts. This course provides a foundation in the fundamentals of SQL Server, which is a powerful tool for operations research. By taking this course, you will gain the skills and knowledge needed to become a successful Operations Research Analyst.

See salaries and explore the career path for Operations Research Analyst