SQL Server applications

Options for scaling out SQL Server applications to boost workloads

Scaling out a database to meet the needs of a heavy processing workload can be a challenge. Here are details on the SQL Server scalability methods available to ease the process.- SQL Server applications 

One of the big challenges for SQL Server admins has always been scaling databases to accommodate heavier data processing workloads. Complicating matters, Microsoft provides many different SQL Server scalability options, but they aren’t all appropriate for every situation.

First, there’s the basic question of whether to scale up or scale out a SQL Server architecture. The former involves moving a database to a bigger server with more processors, memory and data storage; the latter extends SQL Server applications across multiple servers, which spreads out data processing workloads and offers potential data redundancy and availability benefits.

In this case, we’ll focus on the various ways to scale out SQL Server. Before deciding which scalability method to use, database administrators must consider factors such as the frequency of data updates, whether data can be partitioned between different databases and their ability to modify the applications that run on SQL Server. With the answers in hand, they can create a scale-out plan that meets their specific needs. Continue reading →