Windows PowerShell® 2.0 Bible

CHAPTER 13

Managing SQL Server 2008 R2

IN THIS CHAPTER

Basics of SQL Server management

Querying and inserting data

Getting information from SQL Server

Scripting and automation

Using SQL Server agent jobs

Software systems have many interdependent moving parts. These parts might include operating systems, databases, and applications. The historical challenge of managing this type of system was that each part of a software system required a different mechanism to communicate with the component. A database might need T-SQL, application code might require C#, and the operating system may require a command-line scripting language. Managing these varied components required either multiple people with unique skill sets or people who were capable of learning multiple languages. Either way, it was a challenge.

In Windows PowerShell, we have a single language that can be used to interact with an operating system, an application, or a database. This is a huge benefit for anyone who wears multiple hats in their organization. Windows PowerShell enables IT professionals to develop a single skill set that can help bridge the gap between each area of the system. This level of flexibility and control over my environment is why Windows PowerShell is my favorite topic to teach and write on. This chapter focuses on how to leverage Windows PowerShell in a SQL Server environment and covers tasks that can be made more efficient and reusable in both development and administration processes.

PowerShell ...