MS SQL Server 2008

Course Description:

This course offers in-depth coverage of Microsoft SQL Server 2008, one of the most popular database management systems used by businesses for data storage, retrieval, and management. Students will learn essential database administration skills, SQL query techniques, performance optimization, and how to work with the various tools provided by SQL Server 2008. The course covers topics from basic SQL commands to advanced features such as data security, backup strategies, and troubleshooting.

Course Objectives:

By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

Understand the fundamentals of relational databases and SQL Server architecture.
Write and optimize SQL queries for data retrieval, manipulation, and reporting.
Design and implement databases using SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS).
Use advanced SQL Server features like triggers, stored procedures, and views.
Perform database administration tasks, including backups, restores, and security configurations.
Troubleshoot common database and performance issues.
Implement and manage SQL Server security features, user roles, and permissions.

Course Modules:

Module 1: Introduction to SQL Server 2008

Overview of SQL Server 2008
SQL Server architecture and components
Installing and configuring SQL Server 2008
SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS) and SQL Server Profiler

Module 2: Database Design and Normalization

Designing a relational database
Understanding normalization and denormalization
Creating tables, primary keys, and foreign keys
Database relationships and constraints

Module 3: Writing and Optimizing SQL Queries

Basic SQL queries (SELECT, INSERT, UPDATE, DELETE)
Using functions and operators in SQL
Sorting, filtering, and joining tables
Subqueries, views, and indexes
Query optimization techniques

Module 4: Advanced SQL Server Features

Triggers, stored procedures, and user-defined functions
Implementing transactions and error handling
Working with complex data types (e.g., XML, full-text search)
Advanced joins, subqueries, and set operations

Module 5: Database Administration and Maintenance

Database backup and restore strategies
Managing database integrity and consistency
Performance tuning and query optimization
Configuring SQL Server Agent for automated tasks
Monitoring and troubleshooting SQL Server performance

Module 6: Security and User Management

Implementing authentication and authorization
Managing roles and permissions
SQL Server security best practices
Auditing and encryption techniques

Module 7: Data Integration and Reporting

Importing and exporting data
Using SQL Server Integration Services (SSIS)
Introduction to SQL Server Reporting Services (SSRS)
Generating and managing reports

Module 8: Troubleshooting and Advanced Administration

Troubleshooting performance and locking issues
Using SQL Server Profiler for debugging
Handling database corruption and restoring from backups
Implementing high availability solutions

Assessment & Evaluation:

Assignments: Hands-on tasks, SQL query challenges, and small projects (30%)
Midterm Exam: Written test covering theory and SQL syntax (20%)
Final Project: Designing and administering a sample database solution (30%)
Final Exam: A comprehensive exam testing SQL and administration skills (20%)