We may earn an affiliate commission when you visit our partners.
Pluralsight logo

Getting Started with Your First SQL Server Instance

Kevin Hill

This course will teach you the basics of SQL Server architecture, installation, tools, and configuration in order to help you understand SQL Server administration.

Read more

This course will teach you the basics of SQL Server architecture, installation, tools, and configuration in order to help you understand SQL Server administration.

At the core of SQL Server is a thorough knowledge of database administration. In this course, Getting Started with Your First SQL Server Instance, you’ll learn the basics of installing and configuring SQL Server 2017. First, you’ll learn SQL Server history and architecture. Next, you’ll explore how to install SQL Server 2017. Then, you’ll discover how to use the SQL Server Tools. Finally, you’ll discover how to do basic SQL Server configuration. When you’re finished with this course, you’ll have a basic knowledge of SQL Server that will help you move forward in your understanding of database administration.

Enroll now

What's inside

Syllabus

Course Overview
Introducing SQL Server
Installing SQL Server 2017 Developer Edition
Understanding the Different SQL Server Tools and Utilities
Read more
Configuring Your SQL Server Instance
Summary and Resources

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Explores SQL Server architecture, installation, tools, and configuration
Taught by recognized SQL Server instructor Kevin Hill
Provides a strong foundation for beginners in SQL Server administration
This course is designed for learners who are interested in getting started with SQL Server administration
May be useful for learners seeking to strengthen their existing foundation in database administration
Specifically uses SQL Server 2017, which may be an older version for some learners

Save this course

Save Getting Started with Your First SQL Server Instance to your list so you can find it easily later:
Save

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 Getting Started with Your First SQL Server Instance with these activities:
SQL Server Tutorial for Beginners
Establish a solid foundation in SQL Server by following guided tutorials that cover core concepts and hands-on exercises.
Show steps
  • Find a reputable SQL Server tutorial online or on platforms like Coursera or Udemy.
  • Follow the tutorial step-by-step, completing all exercises and assignments.
  • Take notes and ask questions in discussion forums to clarify your understanding.
Review Database Administration Fundamentals
Review database administration fundamentals to strengthen your understanding of the core concepts before starting the course.
Show steps
  • Read introductory articles or books on database administration.
  • Review notes or materials from previous database courses or workshops.
  • Take practice quizzes or solve example problems related to database administration.
SQL Server Skills Check
Test your knowledge of key SQL concepts and identify areas for improvement before starting the course.
Show steps
  • Take an online SQL quiz or assessment.
  • Review your results and identify areas where you need additional practice.
  • Complete practice exercises or tutorials to strengthen your understanding.
12 other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all 15 activities
Review SQL Server history and architecture
Refresh your understanding of SQL Server history and architecture to provide a strong foundation for the course.
Show steps
  • Review online articles and documentation on SQL Server history.
  • Create a diagram of the SQL Server architecture.
Organize your course materials
Improve your retention by organizing your course notes, assignments, and materials.
Show steps
  • Create a system for organizing your course materials.
  • Regularly review and update your organized materials.
Follow SQL Server Installation Tutorials
Follow guided tutorials to gain practical experience installing SQL Server, reducing the risk of encountering issues during the course.
Show steps
  • Search for online tutorials or documentation on SQL Server installation.
  • Follow the steps outlined in the tutorials to install SQL Server.
  • Verify the successful installation by running basic SQL queries.
SQL Server Study Group
Engage with other learners by forming a study group. Collaborate on practice exercises, discuss concepts, and provide support to enhance your understanding.
Show steps
  • Join or create an online or in-person study group.
  • Establish regular meeting times and set clear goals for each session.
  • Take turns leading discussions, presenting concepts, and solving problems together.
Follow tutorials on installing SQL Server 2017
Solidify your understanding of SQL Server installation by following detailed tutorials.
Show steps
  • Find reputable tutorials on installing SQL Server 2017.
  • Follow the steps outlined in the tutorials to install SQL Server 2017 on your system.
Join a SQL Server Study Group
Collaborate with peers in a study group to discuss concepts, share knowledge, and support each other's learning.
Show steps
  • Find or create a study group with other students enrolled in the course.
  • Establish regular meeting times and a study schedule.
  • Discuss course materials, ask questions, and work on practice problems together.
Create a Sample Database
Apply your SQL Server knowledge by creating a simple database, defining tables, and populating data to gain practical experience.
Browse courses on Database Creation
Show steps
  • Choose a project idea or scenario that interests you.
  • Design the database schema, including tables, columns, and relationships.
  • Use SQL Server Management Studio or another tool to create the database and tables.
  • Write SQL queries to insert, update, and retrieve data from your database.
  • Test your database functionality and make necessary adjustments.
Practice using SQL Server Tools
Reinforce your knowledge of SQL Server Tools through repetitive exercises.
Show steps
  • Find practice exercises or online quizzes on using SQL Server Tools.
  • Complete the exercises or quizzes to test your understanding.
Solve SQL Server Administration Practice Problems
Engage in practice drills to reinforce your understanding of SQL Server administration tasks, improving your problem-solving abilities.
Show steps
  • Find online resources or purchase practice problem sets on SQL Server administration.
  • Attempt to solve the practice problems independently.
  • Review the solutions and identify areas for improvement.
Configure a SQL Server instance
Apply your understanding of SQL Server configuration by setting up a fully-functional instance.
Show steps
  • Plan the configuration settings for your SQL Server instance.
  • Implement the configuration settings on your SQL Server instance.
  • Test the configuration and make adjustments as needed.
Contribute to SQL Server Open Source Projects
Engage with the SQL Server open source community by contributing to projects, expanding your knowledge and building connections.
Browse courses on Database Development
Show steps
  • Identify open source SQL Server projects on platforms like GitHub.
  • Review the project documentation and identify areas where you can contribute.
  • Submit bug reports, feature suggestions, or code contributions to the project.
SQL Server Blog Post
Share your knowledge and understanding of SQL Server by writing a blog post. Explain specific concepts, provide practical tips, or explore advanced topics.
Show steps
  • Choose a topic that you're knowledgeable and passionate about.
  • Research and gather information from reliable sources.
  • Write a well-structured blog post, including an introduction, body, and conclusion.
  • Share your blog post on social media or other online platforms.

Career center

Learners who complete Getting Started with Your First SQL Server Instance will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
SQL Server Administrator
A crucial role in modern infrastructure, SQL Server Administrators install, operate, and maintain SQL Server database systems at scale. With a deep grasp of SQL Server architecture, tools, and configuration refined through this course, you will be well-positioned to implement and handle complex data solutions.
Database Administrator
Database Administrators oversee the management, monitoring, and optimization of database systems, ensuring optimal performance and data integrity. By learning the fundamentals of SQL Server administration in this course, including installation, configuration, and troubleshooting, you will broaden your skillset as a Database Administrator.
Business Intelligence Analyst
Business Intelligence Analysts bridge the gap between data and actionable insights, enabling organizations to make strategic decisions. Through this course, you will gain a solid foundation in SQL Server, empowering you to gather, analyze, and present data in a meaningful way, maximizing your impact as a Business Intelligence Analyst.
Data Analyst
Data Analysts leverage data to derive meaningful insights, driving informed decision-making within organizations. By understanding the basics of SQL Server and its tools through this course, you will be able to extract, analyze, and interpret data effectively, enhancing your credibility and value as a Data Analyst.
Data Engineer
Data Engineers design, build, and maintain data pipelines and systems, ensuring the reliability, scalability, and security of data infrastructure. A comprehensive understanding of SQL Server, covered in this course, will provide you with the expertise to develop and manage robust data pipelines, enhancing your capabilities as a Data Engineer.
Database Developer
Database Developers build and manage database applications, ensuring optimal performance and data integrity. By learning the fundamentals of SQL Server in this course, you will be able to design and develop robust database solutions, advancing your abilities as a highly sought-after Database Developer.
Data Scientist
Data Scientists extract knowledge and insights from data, driving data-driven decision-making. By gaining familiarity with SQL Server through this course, you will enhance your ability to access and analyze data, expanding your capabilities as a Data Scientist.
Software Engineer
Software Engineers design, develop, and maintain software systems. Incorporating the knowledge of SQL Server gained through this course will strengthen your proficiency in managing data within software applications, making you a more well-rounded and competitive Software Engineer.
IT Consultant
IT Consultants provide expert advice and solutions to organizations on a wide range of technology matters. Through this course, you will acquire a foundational understanding of SQL Server, which is widely used in enterprise environments. This knowledge will enhance your ability to assess and recommend solutions, boosting your credibility as an IT Consultant.
IT Architect
IT Architects design and implement technology solutions that align with an organization's business objectives. By learning about SQL Server's architecture and configuration in this course, you will expand your understanding of data management and infrastructure, strengthening your ability to design and deliver effective IT solutions.
Systems Engineer
Systems Engineers ensure the reliability, availability, and performance of computer systems. By understanding the principles of SQL Server, covered in this course, you will enhance your ability to manage and troubleshoot data-related issues, contributing to the stability and efficiency of systems as a Systems Engineer.
Data Warehouse Engineer
Data Warehouse Engineers build and maintain data warehouses, large-scale data repositories used for analysis and reporting. Understanding the concepts and tools of SQL Server through this course will equip you with the necessary knowledge to design and manage data warehouses effectively.
Cloud Architect
Cloud Architects design and implement cloud-based solutions, optimizing performance, cost, and security. A familiarity with SQL Server, as introduced in this course, will provide you with a valuable understanding of data management in the cloud, enabling you to make informed decisions and deliver innovative cloud solutions.
Database Security Engineer
Database Security Engineers safeguard the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of data in database systems. By learning the basics of SQL Server configuration and security in this course, you will gain a foundation in data protection measures, enhancing your ability to secure databases and prevent data breaches.
Information Security Analyst
Information Security Analysts protect organizations from cyber threats and data breaches. A foundational knowledge of SQL Server, as provided in this course, will broaden your understanding of data security and its role in an organization's overall security posture.

Reading list

We've selected seven books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Getting Started with Your First SQL Server Instance.
Provides a collection of recipes for common SQL Server tasks, such as data manipulation, query optimization, and performance tuning. It valuable reference for both new and experienced SQL Server developers.
Provides a deep dive into SQL Server execution plans, which are essential for understanding how SQL Server processes queries. It valuable resource for both new and experienced SQL Server developers who want to improve their query performance.
Provides a comprehensive overview of SQL Server performance tuning, including topics such as query tuning, index tuning, and hardware tuning. It valuable resource for both new and experienced SQL Server developers who want to improve the performance of their databases.
Provides a comprehensive overview of SQL Server query performance tuning, including topics such as query optimization, index tuning, and hardware tuning. It valuable resource for both new and experienced SQL Server developers who want to improve the performance of their queries.
Provides a comprehensive overview of SQL Server Reporting Services, including topics such as report design, report deployment, and report management. It valuable resource for both new and experienced SQL Server developers who want to create and manage reports.
Provides a comprehensive overview of SQL Server Integration Services, including topics such as data extraction, transformation, and loading. It valuable resource for both new and experienced SQL Server developers who want to automate data integration tasks.
Provides a comprehensive overview of SQL Server Analysis Services, including topics such as data modeling, data analysis, and data mining. It valuable resource for both new and experienced SQL Server developers who want to build and manage data warehouses.

Share

Help others find this course page by sharing it with your friends and followers:

Similar courses

Here are nine courses similar to Getting Started with Your First SQL Server Instance.
SQL Server 2017: Diagnosing Configuration Issues with DMVs
Most relevant
SQL Server 2017: Diagnosing Performance Issues with DMVs
Most relevant
SQL Server Performance Tuning Part 1
Most relevant
Managing SQL Server Database Performance
Most relevant
SQL Server: Installing and Configuring SQL Server 2016
Most relevant
Complete Cognos Training Course for a Dream IT Job
Most relevant
Managing Azure SQL Database for the SQL Server DBA
Most relevant
Getting Started with SQL Server Transactions
Most relevant
Microsoft SQL Server on Linux in Azure
Most relevant
Our mission

OpenCourser helps millions of learners each year. People visit us to learn workspace skills, ace their exams, and nurture their curiosity.

Our extensive catalog contains over 50,000 courses and twice as many books. Browse by search, by topic, or even by career interests. We'll match you to the right resources quickly.

Find this site helpful? Tell a friend about us.

Affiliate disclosure

We're supported by our community of learners. When you purchase or subscribe to courses and programs or purchase books, we may earn a commission from our partners.

Your purchases help us maintain our catalog and keep our servers humming without ads.

Thank you for supporting OpenCourser.

© 2016 - 2024 OpenCourser