BACKUP AND RESTORE
Backup and Restore for Shared SQL Server Hosting
myLittleTools announced myLittleBackup for SQL Server 2000 and 2005, a backup and restore Web application for shared SQL Server hosting. myLittleBackup lets users upload a backup file from their own server and restore (install) it on the shared SQL server. After the restore, myLittleBackup automatically checks user mappings and other options.
The solution includes two tools that help reduce support time. The "Check databases" tool lets users fix user mappings and other options without opening a support ticket. The "Manage backup files" tool lets users download, upload, and delete old backup files. For more information, contact myLittleTools at support@ mylittletools.net, sales@ mylittletools.net, or http://www.mylittlebackup.com
BACKUP AND RESTORE
Restore a Database to a Point in Time or Point of Failure
Databk.com announced SQL Server Backup 6.1.2, a backup and restore utility that uses data compression and 128- or 256-bit encryption to perform full database backups, differential backups, and transaction log backups. SQL Server Backup supports multiple SQL Server instances and can restore a database to a point of failure or specific point in time. The software also deletes expired backups automatically and can email reports to inform you about the status of a backup or restore job. SQL Server Backup supports Microsoft SQL Server 2005/2000/7.0 and SQL Server 2005 Express. SQL Server Backup is priced at $79.95, and volume discounts are available.
You can download a free 15-day trial version of the software at Databk.com's Web site. For more information, contact Databk.com at [email protected], [email protected], or http://www.databk.com
DATABASE DOCUMENTATION
Simplify Database Documentation
Red Gate Software announced SQL Doc, a tool for documenting SQL Server 2005/2000 databases. SQL Doc lets you access database overviews—including schema and dependencies—and select which databases or sections of databases you want to document, down to the object level. SQL Doc uses Red Gate APIs to retrieve information about your databases and can add or amend object descriptions and display all cross-database dependencies. The software exports the documentation in HTML with or without frames. SQL Doc Pro edition includes a command-line interface. A free 14-day trial of SQL Doc is available at Red Gate's Web site. SQL Doc starts at $295 for the Standard edition and $495 for the Pro edition. For more information, contact Red Gate Software at http://www.red-gate.com
PERFORMANCE
Defragment SQL Server Databases
Idera announced SQL defrag manager, an automated analysis and defragmentation solution for SQL Server databases that improves SQL Server database performance by continuously analyzing fragmentation levels and automatically defragmenting indexes. SQL defrag manager's management console provides a real-time window into fragmentation levels and lets you manage and control automated analysis and defragmentation activity across multiple servers and databases. SQL defrag manager also determines defragmentation scheduling to ensure that critical production servers will be minimally affected. The software is priced at $995 per SQL Server instance. For more information, contact Idera at 713-523-4433, 877-464-3372, or http://www.idera.com
TECHNICAL RESOURCE
Implement, Maintain, and Troubleshoot SQL Server 2005 Databases
KeyStone Learning Systems released its latest instructor-based video courseware, "SQL Server 2005 Implementation and Maintenance." This training course starts with the processes of installing and configuring SQL Server 2005 and upgrading SQL Server 2000 to SQL Server 2005. The training then takes you through supporting database clients, importing and exporting data, and working with XML data. "SQL Server 2005 Implementation and Maintenance" explains how to create and manage various database objects, including tables, views, triggers, functions, and stored procedures. Additional training includes tips for monitoring and troubleshooting SQL Server 2005 performance. A single-user license starts at $499. For more information, contact KeyStone Learning Systems at 800-949-5590 or http://www.keystonelearning.com
PERFORMANCE
Ensure Continuous Data Uptime
GoldenGate Software announced GoldenGate 9.0, transactional data management software that improves the availability, accessibility, and performance of mission-critical data. The software reads the SQL Server database log, encrypts committed transactions, and moves them across the network to one or many targeted systems. To ensure continuous uptime, GoldenGate moves the data bi-directionally while maintaining transaction integrity; during a primary system outage, users are pointed to a second fully synchronized system. For more information, contact GoldenGate Software at 415-777-0200 or http://www.goldengate.com
JOB SCHEDLING MANAGEMENT
Manage SQL Server and Oracle Scheduled Events
SQL Sentry announced that SQL Sentry Event Manager, a tool that helps you manage scheduled events, now supports Oracle, so you can manage SQL Server, Windows Task Scheduler, and Oracle in the same platform. Event Manager can automate a logical workflow between SQL Server and Oracle; the software's interface provides visibility into all scheduled database events, regardless of platform. Event Manager for Oracle features visual schedule management, performance monitoring, alerting and response actions, graphical reporting, and advanced chaining. For more information, contact SQL Sentry at 704-8956241, [email protected], or http://www.sqlsentry.net
TECHNICAL RESOURCE
Learn How to Implement and Maintain a SQL Database
LearnKey released Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist (MCTS) for Structured Query Language (SQL) 2005 training, a learning track that covers all prerequisites for the Microsoft MCTS: SQL Server 2005 certification exam. SQL Server MVP Wayne Snyder leads you through the course material. This learning track includes 15 sessions and approximately 45 hours of study. LearnKey's MCTS SQL Server 2005 series costs $1080 for individuals or $2695 for multiple seats. The learning track is available online, on DVD, and on CD-ROM. For more information, contact LearnKey at 800-8650165 or http://www.learnkey.com