Microsoft SQL Server 2014

Description

Microsoft SQL Server 2014 is an advanced relational database management system (RDBMS) developed by Microsoft. It includes a range of features designed to support enterprise-scale database applications with enhanced performance, security, and scalability. Here are some key aspects and features of SQL Server 2014:

Key Features:

1. In-Memory OLTP (Hekaton):
   • Significantly boosts transaction processing speeds by storing data in memory.
   • Allows for the creation of memory-optimized tables and natively compiled stored procedures.
2. Buffer Pool Extension:
   • Utilizes SSDs to extend the SQL Server buffer pool, enhancing read performance.
   • Improves the performance of I/O-bound workloads.
3. AlwaysOn Enhancements:
   • Supports up to eight secondary replicas in AlwaysOn Availability Groups.
   • Provides better failover and high availability options.
4. Enhanced Security:
   • Improved auditing features for better compliance and security monitoring.
   • Enhanced encryption and data masking capabilities.
5. Hybrid Cloud Support:
   • Easy integration with Microsoft Azure for backup and disaster recovery.
   • Supports storing SQL Server backups directly in Azure Storage.
6. Enhanced Performance and Scalability:
   • Performance improvements for large-scale database operations.
   • Enhanced support for up to 640 logical processors.
7. Improved Query Performance:
   • New and improved query optimization techniques.
   • Enhanced column store indexes for better data warehousing performance.
8. Business Intelligence (BI):
   • Power BI integration for advanced data analysis and visualization.
   • Enhanced tools for data modeling, reporting, and analytics.
9. Data Tools and Development:
   • SQL Server Data Tools (SSDT) for database development and management.
   • Integration with Visual Studio for streamlined development workflows.
10. Integration Services:
    • Enhanced SSIS (SQL Server Integration Services) for data integration and ETL processes.
    • Better deployment and management capabilities for SSIS packages.
11. Reporting Services:
    • Improved report design and rendering capabilities.
    • Integration with Power View for interactive data visualization.

Benefits:

• Increased Performance: In-memory OLTP and buffer pool extensions significantly boost transaction speeds and read performance.
• High Availability: Enhanced Always On Availability Groups provide robust high availability and disaster recovery solutions.
• Scalability: Supports larger and more complex database environments with improved scalability features.
• Advanced BI Capabilities: Comprehensive BI tools for data analysis, reporting, and visualization.
• Hybrid Cloud Integration: Simplifies backup and disaster recovery by integrating with Microsoft Azure.

Use Cases:

• Enterprise Applications: Suitable for mission-critical applications requiring high performance, availability, and scalability.
• Data Warehousing: Ideal for large-scale data warehousing with enhanced query performance and data integration tools.
• Business Intelligence: Provides powerful tools for advanced data analysis, reporting, and visualization.

End of Support:

• Mainstream Support: Ended on July 9, 2019.
• Extended Support: Ends on July 9, 2024. Users are encouraged to plan for upgrades to newer versions to continue receiving support and updates.