Access the SQL virtual database Release Notes

Transcription

1 Access the SQL virtual database Release Ntes SQL virtual database helps yu quickly and easily access data and bjects frm yur backup files withut perfrming cstly restre peratins r impacting yur prductin servers. Yu can get a quick glimpse int the newest features, fixed issues, and knwn issues in this release f SQL virtual database by accessing the Release Ntes. Review issues fixed by this release Review previus features and fixed issues See knwn issues See list f recmmended Idera Slutins Updated: 3/14/2012 3:16 PM

2 Get Started Use the fllwing checklist t get started with SQL virtual database. Lcate the backup files fr the database yu want t attach. Get Started Checklist Steps Decide whether yu want t attach a full backup file r attach multiple data files such as transactin lg backups. Create the virtual database accrding t yur specific recvery needs. Use the Query tl t verify yur virtual database was attached crrectly. Use SQL Server Management Studi r anther database management tl t view, cmpare, recver, and reprt n bjects and data frm yur virtual databases. Decide whether yu want t update yur existing SQL Server backup jbs t create file maps autmatically after the regularly scheduled backup peratin is cmpleted. This imprves the virtual database perfrmance, allwing yu t mre quickly access future backups. Mnitr the amunt f disk space used by yur virtual databases.typically, virtual databases require a fractin f the disk space cnsumed by a fully restred backup. If yu are virtualizing large databases, yu may need t allcate additinal disk space ver time.

3 Upgrade t this build Yu can easily and quickly upgrade t the latest versin f SQL virtual database. Upgrading will nt delete r alter any existing virtual databases hsted by the SQL Server instance n the installatin cmputer. Fr mre infrmatin abut this release, see what s new. T upgrade: 1. Use an administratr accunt t lg nt the target cmputer. 2. Start SQL tlbx. 3. Click the Updates tab. 4. Select SQL virtual database, and then click install. SQL tlbx silently installs the latest versin. 5. Start the SQLvdb Cnsle. Yu can access yur existing virtual databases r create new nes.

4 What is SQL virtual database? Idera SQL virtual database (SQLvdb) is a pwerful ne-f-a-kind slutin that lets yu attach SQL Server backup files and query them like real databases. With its revlutinary, patent-pending technlgy, yu gain instant access t critical data in a backup file withut spending the time and strage previusly required fr restre. In minutes, yu can create a virtual database and then use any native SQL Server r third-party tls t query and extract the data yu need. Features Virtual recvery Prvides instant, feature-rich access t all data frm within SQLsafe backup and native SQL Server backup files. Pint-in-time selectin Prvides pint-in-time selectin and recvery, allwing granular cntrl ver the state f the data displayed in the virtual database. Native SQL Server and third-party applicatin access Use existing SQL Server tls such as SQL Server Management Studi and third-party applicatins t interact with the new virtual database as thugh it were an actual physical database. Intuitive Cnsle Allws virtual databases t be quickly and easily created, edited, r remved. N impact t prductin servers Installs t a single nn-critical server and attaches all virtual databases t a single SQL Server instance.

5 Hw des SQL virtual database help me? Database administratrs are ften asked t recver a backup in rder t recver bjects and data, cmpare tw systems, r run a reprt. Previusly, the nly way t d this is t restre the database, a cnsuming activity that requires time and strage. SQL virtual database lets yu create a virtual database that appears t SQL Server and third-party applicatins as a physical database. This virtual database prvides direct access t the data withut a restre. This direct access greatly reduces the time required fr data recvery,increases yur prductivity, and reduces resurce requirements. With SQL virtual database, yu can: Eliminate lng restre times Access a backup file and retrieve the bjects r data yu need immediately Save massive amunts f strage Execute any query Use backups fr reprting, data extractin, data analysis, and mre Take the lad ff yur prductin servers and experience zer impact n prductin databases Access full, differential, and transactin lg backup files made by Idera SQLsafe and SQL Server

6 Hw des SQL virtual database wrk? SQL virtual database is driven by a unique, patent-pending recvery technlgy that makes backup files behave like regular physical databases. This technlgy allws yu t create virtual databases by directly attaching backup files t SQL Server withut requiring a restre peratin. Each virtual database is hsted by the SQL Server instance yu specify. All bjects and data in the virtual databases are accessible t SQL Server jbs and stred prcedures, T-SQL scripts, and ther third-party applicatins. The SQLvdb Engine, which cnsists f a driver and a service, manages the virtual database and services the SQL Server I/O requests t the virtual data files. As the SQLvdb Engine attaches yur selected backup files and creates the virtual database, it cnslidates all the transactins and presents them t SQL Server fr recvery. During this prcess, SQL virtual database "maps" the data frm the backup files. If the data has already been "mapped", such as thrugh SQLsafe r the Map Generatin utility, then SQL virtual database prceeds t the virtual database creatin.yu can create a virtual database by attaching specific data sets frm multiple full, differential, and transactin lg backups. Yu can then use the SQLvdb Cnsle, r any ther third-party tl, t perfrm queries against specific virtual databases r simply check the status f yur virtual databases. Fr mre infrmatin, see ur instructins n hw t use yur virtual database, as well as tips and tricks. The prduct features, such as the virtual database creatin, are als available thrugh the SQLvdb CLI. Fr mre infrmatin, see the prduct cmpnent descriptins. Hw des SQL virtual database wrk with SQLsafe? SQL virtual database seamlessly cnverts SQLsafe backup files int virtual databases. Yu can use SQL virtual database with any backup file generated by SQLsafe 5.0 r later. Fr mre infrmatin, see the prduct requirements. When yu attach a backup file previusly created by SQLsafe 5.0, the SQLvdb Engine perfrms the same steps as it des with the native SQL Server backup. T ptimize perfrmance fr large databases, use the Map Generatin utility t generate the required metadata befre attaching the backup files. With SQLsafe 6.0 r later, yu can cnfigure yur backup peratin t autmatically generate the metadata. By default, this ptin is enabled when yu perfrm a new manual backup r define a new backup plicy. Fr mre infrmatin, see the SQLsafe nline Help. What virtual data files are created? Fr each virtual database yu create, several files are als created t supprt the new virtual database. These virtual data files are: File Descriptin Lcatin Can yu mve it? When is it deleted? *.xbm *.xcm *.xdm *.xtm Files that the SQvdb Driver creates t map the data in the selected backup files. In the same flder where yu stre yur backup files. N... Mving these files will cause errrs when yu attempt t access the virtual database. Never... After yu have retrieved the data yu need frm the virtual database, yu can use the grm feature t delete unused data files, manually delete these files, r schedule a jb t peridically grm ld files. *.lcf *.mcf *.ncf Files that the SQLvdb Service creates when In the VDB/Sparse N but yu can specify a new lcatin... When the virtual database is remved (drpped) frm the SQL Server

7 File Descriptin Lcatin Can yu mve it? When is it deleted? reading changed pages frm the transactin lg fr the selected backup files. flder under the Prgram Files directry n the client cmputer. Mving these files when the virtual database is attached will cause errrs when yu attempt t access its data. T chse a different lcatin fr these files, delete yur virtual databases, and then specify a new directry path. When yu create the next virtual database, the SQLvdb Engine will use the new path. instance. *.lxf *.mxf *.nxf Virtualized versins f the.lcf and.mcf files assciated with the selected backup set. Nne... These files are placehlders fr SQL Server. N... These files d nt exist n yur disk. When the virtual database is remved (drpped) frm the SQL Server instance. *.vdb An XML file that cntains the cnfiguratin infrmatin fr the virtual database. In the Repsitry flder under the Prgram Files directry n the client cmputer. N... Mving these files will cause errrs when yu attempt t access the virtual database. When the virtual database is remved (drpped) frm the SQL Server instance. Hw much disk space shuld I allcate fr the virtual data files? The amunt f disk space cnsumed by the virtual data files depends n the size and cntent f yur backup files. Fr mre infrmatin, see the recmmended disk space allcatins. TIP The size fr these files may display incrrectly in tls such as Management Studi. T see the crrect size, use Windws Explrer t navigate t the file and then view the file prperties.

8 Find answers using this dcumentatin This dcumentatin set includes a cmprehensive nline Help system as well as additinal resurces that supprt yu as yu install and use the prduct. Yu can als search the Idera Slutins knwledge base, available at the Idera Custmer Service Prtal (

9 Cntact Idera Please cntact us with yur questins and cmments. We lk frward t hearing frm yu. Fr supprt arund the wrld, please cntact us r yur lcal partner. Fr a cmplete list f ur partners, please see ur Web site. Wh? Hw? Sales GO.IDERA ( ) (nly in the United States and Canada) sales@idera.cm Licensing licensing@idera.cm Supprt Web site

10 Dcument cnventins Idera dcumentatin uses cnsistent cnventins t help yu identify items thrughut the printed nline library. Cnventin Bld Italics Fixed Fnt Straight brackets, as in [value] Curly braces, as in {value} Lgical OR, as in value 1 value 2 Specifies Windw items Bk and CD titles Variable names New terms File and directry names Cmmands and cde examples Text typed by yu Optinal cmmand parameters Required cmmand parameters Exclusively cmmand parameters where nly ne f the ptins can be specified

11 Abut Idera At Idera, we have engineered a new generatin f tls fr managing and administering the wrld's fastest grwing database management system - Micrsft SQL Server. Headquartered in Hustn, Texas, Idera basts numerus systems and database management industry veterans devted t bringing prven slutins t yu, the database prfessinal. We prvide prducts that install in minutes, cnfigure in hurs and deply wrldwide in days t dramatically increase the perfrmance, availability and efficiency f SQL Server peratins, and the prductivity f database administratrs.

12 Idera prducts Our tls are engineered t scale - frm managing a single server t enterprise deplyments with thusands f servers. Idera prducts cmbine ease f use with a design that installs in minutes, cnfigure in hurs, and deply wrldwide in days. T learn mre abut Idera prducts, visit

13 Legal ntice Idera, Inc., DTx, IntelliCmpress, Pint admin tlset, Pintbackup, Pintcheck, PwerShellPlus, SharePint enterprise manager, SharePint security manager, SharePint diagnstic manager, SharePint backup, SharePint perfrmance mnitr, SQLcheck, SQL change manager, SQLcnfig, SQL cmparisn tlset, SQL cmpliance manager, SQLcmpliance, SQLcm, SQL defrag manager, SQL diagnstic manager, SQLdm, SQL mbile manager, SQLpermissins, SQLsafe, SQLsafe Freeware Editin, SQLsafe Lite, SQLscaler, SQLschedule, SQL schema manager, SQLsecure, SQLsmarts, SQLstats, SQLtl, SQL tlbx, SQL virtual database, SQLvdb, virtual database, Idera, BBS Technlgies and the Idera lg are trademarks r registered trademarks f Idera, Inc., r its subsidiaries in the United States and ther jurisdictins. All ther cmpany and prduct names may be trademarks r registered trademarks f their respective cmpanies Idera, Inc., all rights reserved. THIS DOCUMENT AND THE SOFTWARE DESCRIBED IN THIS DOCUMENT ARE FURNISHED UNDER AND ARE SUB- JECT TO THE TERMS OF A LICENSE AGREEMENT. EXCEPT AS EXPRESSLY SET FORTH IN SUCH LICENSE AGREE- MENT, IDERA, INC., PROVIDES THIS DOCUMENT AND THE SOFTWARE DESCRIBED IN THIS DOCUMENT "AS IS" WITHOUT WARRANTY OF ANY KIND, EITHER EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. SOME STATES DO NOT ALLOW DISCLAIMERS OF EXPRESS OR IMPLIED WARRANTIES IN CERTAIN TRANSACTIONS; THEREFORE, THIS STATEMENT MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU. YOU ARE ENCOURAGED TO READ THE LICENSE AGREEMENT BEFORE INSTALLING OR USING THIS DOCUMENTATION OR SOFTWARE. Sme cmpanies, names, and data in this dcument are used fr illustratin purpses and may nt represent real cmpanies, individuals, r data. This dcument culd include technical inaccuracies r typgraphical errrs. Changes are peridically made t the infrmatin herein. These changes may be incrprated in new editins f this dcument. Idera, Inc., may make imprvements in r changes t the sftware described in this dcument at any time Idera, Inc., all rights reserved. U.S. Gvernment Restricted Rights: The sftware and the dcumentatin are cmmercial cmputer sftware and dcumentatin develped at private expense. Use, duplicatin, r disclsure by the Gvernment is subject t the terms f the Idera, Inc., standard cmmercial license fr the sftware, and where applicable, the restrictins set frth in the Rights in Technical Data and Cmputer Sftware clauses and any successr rules r regulatins.

14 Installatin and deplyment Deply an installatin f SQL virtual database t each SQL Server cmputer that hsts the databases yu want t virtualize. Install all f the prduct cmpnents n the same cmputer. Hw d I install SQL virtual database? 1. Review the prduct requirements. 2. Lg nt the target cmputer using an accunt with administratr privileges. 3. Dwnlad and install the SQL tlbx. 4. Frm the Tls available fr install list, select SQL virtual database. 5. Click install. 6. Start the SQLvdb Cnsle. When yu start the Cnsle, the licensing cnsle displays. 7. Chse the apprpriate licensing ptin. Yu will need a prductin license fr each cmputer n which yu install SQL virtual database. Fr mre infrmatin, see prduct licensing. Can I deply SQL virtual database t a clustered SQL Server envirnment? Yes. SQL virtual database supprts Windws 2003 and Windws 2008 clusters.

15 Prduct cmpnents and architecture Befre installing SQL virtual database, check the fllwing prduct cmpnent definitins and architecture, and review hw the prduct wrks. Prduct cmpnents CLI Is the cmmand line interface. The SQLvdb CLI calls the Management Service t manage the creatin, mdificatin, and remval f yur virtual databases. Yu can call the CLI frm new r existing T-SQL scripts, such as yur SQL Server backup jbs. T access the SQLvdb CLI, start the Windws Cmmand Prmpt, and then enter sqlvdbcli t see which ptins yu can use. Cnsle Is the user interface that allws yu t manage yur virtual databases and query any data r bject frm the virtual databases. Yu can als use the SQLvdb Cnsle t change yur prduct cnfiguratin and access nline Help. Driver Is a cmpnent f the SQLvdb Engine that is attached t a specific drive n the target SQL Server cmputer. By default, the SQLvdb Driver is attached t the C:\ drive. The driver handles the I/O requests required t create the virtual database. Yu can change the drive t which the driver is attached. Engine Cnsists f the driver and the service. The engine cmpnents cmmunicate with SQL Server, and create and maintain yur virtual database. Service Is a cmpnent f the SQLvdb Engine that is installed n the target SQL Server cmputer. The SQLvdb Service uses the cnfigured Windws accunt r SQL Server lgin credentials t cmmunicate with SQL Server. This service als crdinates with the driver t retrieve data frm the specified backup files and then create data files fr yur virtual database. Yu can specify a different flder in which t stre the virtual data files. Virtual Data Files Is a set f files that includes infrmatin abut yur prduct cnfiguratin, virtual database settings, and ther data. Fr mre infrmatin abut these files, review hw SQLvdb wrks. Prduct architecture The fllwing graphic illustrates the relatinship between the prduct cmpnents. All SQLvdb cmpnents are installed n the same physical SQL Server cmputer.

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17 Prduct requirements Yu can easily and quickly install SQL virtual database n any cmputer that meets r exceeds the fllwing hardware, sftware, and permissin requirements. Als review the prduct cmpnents and architecture as well as hw the prduct wrks. Cnsle requirements Ensure the cmputer n which yu want t install the SQLvdb Cnsle meets r exceeds the fllwing requirements. Hardware/Sftware CPU Memry 2.0 GHz r higher 1 GB Requirement 32-bit Operating System Either: Windws Server 2003 SP2 r later Windws XP SP2 r later Windws Vista Business and Enterprise Windws 7 Windws Server 2008 Plus: Windws Server 2008 R2.NET Framewrk 2.0 r later MDAC 2.8 r later 64-bit Operating System Either: Windws Server 2003 SP1 (x64) Windws XP Prfessinal (x64) Windws 7 Windws Server 2008 Plus: Windws Server 2008 R2.NET Framewrk 2.0 r later MDAC 2.8 fr later SQL Server versins SQL Server 2000 SP4 r later SQL Server 2005 SP1 r later SQL Server 2008 SQL Server 2008 R2 Brwser Internet Explrer 7.0 r later (fr the nline Help) Backup file requirements Backup File Attributes SQLsafe versins Requirements SQLsafe 5.0 r later SQL Server versins SQL Server 2000 SP4

18 Backup File Attributes Requirements r later SQL Server 2005 SP1 r later SQL Server 2008 SQL Server 2008 R2 Backup Types Full Differential Transactin lg File Types Single file Multiple files Striped files Permissin requirements The SQLvdb Service accunt requires the fllwing permissins. By default, setup prgram will assign the Lcal System accunt t the SQLvdb Service. During install, yu can input credentials fr a Windws user accunt r SQL Server lgin. Permissins Member f the Builtin Administratrs Windws grup n the SQL Server cmputer where the SQLvdb Engine is installed Read and write access rights n the flder where backup files are stred Actins Taken Create r edit virtual database Read backup files and write temprary files Disk space recmmendatins Use the fllwing table t help yu set aside the apprpriate amunt f disk space fr yur virtual databases. Virtual databases typically require a fractin f the disk space cnsumed by a fully restred backup. Befre creating virtual databases, ensure yu allcate the recmmended additinal disk space fr each virtual database yu plan t create. Size f Backup Additinal Disk Space 1 TB 105 MB 500 GB 51 MB 100 GB 10 MB 1 GB 105 kb 500 MB 51 kb Fr mre infrmatin abut virtual data files, see hw SQL virtual database wrks. Prt Requirements By default, the SQLvdb Service uses prt Cntact yur netwrk administratr t verify whether this prt is pen and available. T cmply with existing prt assignments r firewall settings, yu can change which prt SQLvdb Service uses.

19 Deply SQL virtual database t a Windws 2003 cluster Use the fllwing instructins t deply SQL virtual database in a clustered SQL Server envirnment. When deplyment is cmplete, yu can attach virtual databases t a virtual SQL Server instance lcated n an active Windws 2003 cluster nde. T ensure virtual databases can be used after a failver ccurs, deply SQL virtual database n each nde in the Windws cluster. TIP Ensure the backup files yu want t virtualize are stred n either a netwrk share r the drive assigned t the SQL Server resurce grup. Install and cnfigure SQL virtual database 1. On each nde (cmputer) in the target cluster, verify that a resurce grup exists fr yur target SQL Server cluster. If the target cluster des nt have a SQL Server resurce grup, create ne. 2. On each nde, install SQL virtual database. 3. Lg nt the currently active cluster nde (primary nde) using an administratr accunt. 4. Identify which drive is being used by the target instance n this nde. The target instance is the SQL Server instance t which yu intend t attach virtual databases. a. Start the Micrsft Cluster Administratr tl. b. In the left navigatin pane, expand the Grups nde. c. Select the cluster resurce grup t which the target instance belngs, and then nte the drive letter. 5. On each nde in the target cluster, cnfigure SQL virtual database t use the SQL Server drive. a. Start SQL virtual database. b. Change the virtual data files directry path t use a flder n the SQL Server drive. c. Attach the SQLvdb Driver t the SQL Server drive. 6. On each nde in the target cluster, change the SQLvdb Service prperties t require a manual start. a. Start the Windws Services tl. b. Stp the SQLvdb Service. c. On the General tab f the Service Prperties windw, set the Startup type t Manual. Cnfigure the Windws cluster t recgnize SQL virtual database 1. Lg nt the currently active cluster nde (primary nde) using an administratr accunt, and then start the Micrsft Cluster Administratr tl. 2. Create an IP Address resurce fr the SQLvdb Service. If a Netwrk Name resurce already exists, skip this step. a. Select the target SQL Server cluster resurce grup. b. Create a Netwrk Name resurce that will map t the TCP/IP address. c. Add the TCP/IP address as a dependency. 3. Create a Generic Service resurce fr the SQLvdb Service (SQLvdbService.exe). a. Select the target SQL Server cluster resurce grup. b. Add a Generic Service resurce and specify the fllwing settings: On the New Resurce windw, verify that the resurce name is SQvdb Service. On the Dependencies windw, add the SQL Server service and the name f the disk used by the SQL Server resurce cluster grup. On the Registry Replicatin windw, add the fllwing rt registry key:soft- WARE\Idera\SQLvdb\Service 4. Bring the new Generic Service nline.

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21 Deply SQL virtual database t a Windws 2008 cluster Use the fllwing instructins t deply SQL virtual database in a clustered SQL Server envirnment. When deplyment is cmplete, yu can attach virtual databases t a virtual SQL Server instance lcated n an active Windws 2008 cluster nde. T ensure virtual databases can be used after a failver ccurs, deply SQL virtual database n each nde in the Windws cluster. TIP Ensure the backup files yu want t virtualize are stred n either a netwrk share r the drive assigned t the SQL Server resurce grup. Install and cnfigure SQL virtual database 1. On each nde (cmputer) in the target cluster, verify that a resurce grup exists fr yur target SQL Server cluster. If the target cluster des nt have a SQL Server resurce grup, create ne. 2. On each nde, install SQL virtual database. 3. Lg nt the currently active cluster nde (primary nde) using an administratr accunt. 4. Identify which drive is being used by the target instance n this nde. The target instance is the SQL Server instance t which yu intend t attach virtual databases. a. Start the Micrsft Failver Cluster Administratr tl. b. In the left navigatin pane, expand the apprpriate dmain nde, and then expand Services and Applicatins. c. Select the cluster resurce grup t which the target instance belngs, expand Disk Drives in the right pane, and then nte the vlume letter. 5. On each nde in the target cluster, cnfigure SQL virtual database t use the SQL Server drive. a. Start SQL virtual database. b. Change the virtual data files directry path t use a flder n the SQL Server drive. c. Attach the SQLvdb Driver t the SQL Server drive. 6. On each nde in the target cluster, change the SQLvdb Service prperties t require a manual start. a. Start the Windws Services tl. b. Stp the SQLvdb Service. c. On the General tab f the Service Prperties windw, set the Startup type t Manual. Cnfigure the Windws cluster t recgnize SQL virtual database 1. Lg nt the currently active cluster nde (primary nde) using an administratr accunt, and then start the Micrsft Failver Cluster Administratr tl. 2. Create an IP Address resurce fr the SQLvdb Service. If a Netwrk Name resurce already exists, skip this step. a. Select the target SQL Server cluster resurce grup. b. Create a Netwrk Name resurce that will map t the TCP/IP address. c. Add the TCP/IP address as a dependency.

22 3. Create a Generic Service resurce fr the SQLvdb Service (SQLvdbService.exe). a. Select the target SQL Server cluster resurce grup. b. Add a Generic Service resurce using the default settings. c. On the Service Prperties windw, specify the fllwing settings: On the New Resurce windw, verify that the resurce name is SQvdb Service. On the Dependencies tab, add the SQL Server service and the name f the disk used by the SQL Server resurce cluster grup. On the Registry Replicatin windw, add the fllwing rt registry key:soft- WARE\Idera\SQLvdb\Service 4. Bring the new Generic Service nline.

23 Cnfigure yur deplyment After initially installing and setting up SQLvdb, there are several tasks yu might want t d in rder t further custmize and streamline yur deplyment. Change the prt that SQLvdb Service uses Change where the SQLvdb Engine stres cached files during the virtual database creatin Cllect SQLvdb lgs fr trubleshting Grm unused virtual data files Increase perfrmance by preparing backup files fr future data retrieval Manage yur prduct license Select a different drive n which the SQLvdb Driver shuld run

24 Attach the SQLvdb Driver t a different drive Use the Advanced tab f the Cnfigure windw t attach the SQLvdb Driver t a different drive (vlume). By default, the SQLvdb Driver is attached t a fixed drive n the lcal cmputer, such as the C:\vlume. Cnsider re-attaching the SQLvdb Driver t a vlume that is used infrequently by ther applicatins. Fr mre infrmatin abut ther cnfiguratin tasks, see Cnfigure yur deplyment.

25 Change the prt used by the SQLvdb Service Use the Advanced tab f the Cnfigure windw t chse a different prt. The SQLvdb Service accunt uses the specified prt t cnnect t remte SQL Server instances and netwrk shares. By default, the SQLvdb Service uses prt Due t netwrk firewall settings and applicatin security plicies, this prt may nt be unavailable r yu may experience a cnnectin issue. If yu encunter cnnectin issues, cntact yur netwrk administratr t verify whether the specified prt is pen. Fr mre infrmatin abut ther cnfiguratin tasks, see Cnfigure yur deplyment.

26 Cllect lgs fr trubleshting Use the System Diagnstics windw t cllect verbse lgs that can be used fr trubleshting by Idera Supprt. By default, highlevel lgging is always enabled fr SQL virtual database activities and events. TIP If yu are encuntering cnnectin issues, cntact yur netwrk administratr t verify whether the prt cnfigured fr the SQLvdb Service is pen and available. Hw d I access system diagnstics? 1. On the SQL virtual database Welcme windw, click Help & Mre. 2. Click System Diagnstics. Hw d I cllect the lgs? 1. Click Cllect. SQLvdb creates a zipped flder f the specified lg files and places this flder n the Windws desktp. By default, the zip flder is named IderaSQLvdbCllectinLgInstanceNameTimeStamp.zip. 2. the zipped lg flder t Idera Supprt. Hw d I cllect lgs fr issues encuntered when installing SQL virtual database? 1. Start the Windws Cmmand Prmpt. 2. Navigate t the installer directry (by default, C:\Dcuments and Settings\User Name\My Dcuments). 3. Type ne f the fllwing cmmands: Server Type Installatin Cmmand x86 (32-bit) x64 (64-bit) msiexec /i SQLvdb.msi /l*v C:\MyFlder\SQLvdb_install.lg msiexec /i SQLvdb-X64.msi /l*v C:\MyFlder\SQLvdb_install.lg 4. Step thrugh the setup prgram until yu recreate the issue. SQL virtual database generates the resultant lg file in the lcatin yu specified. 5. the lg file t Idera Supprt.

27 Grm unused virtual data files Use the Basic tab f the Cnfigure windw t grm (delete) any unused virtual data files. The Clean Up Files chart shws hw much disk space is currently being used by the virtual data files. T grm yur data files, click Clean Up. SQL virtual database autmatically detects and deletes any virtual data files that are nt being used r are nt needed t supprt yur existing virtual databases. TIP This feature is als available thrugh the -cleanup ptin in the cmmand line interface (CLI). T get mre infrmatin, enter sqlvdbcli in the Windws Cmmand Prmpt. Fr mre infrmatin abut ther cnfiguratin tasks, see Cnfigure yur deplyment.

28 Manage yur license keys Use the Manage SQLvdb License ptin t view details abut yur trial r prductin license and perfrm actins such as activating a license. Frm the licensing cnsle, yu can: Verify current status f yur license Extend yur trial perid Register and activate yur license Deactivate yur license Fr mre infrmatin abut ther cnfiguratin tasks, see Cnfigure yur deplyment. Fr mre infrmatin abut the licensing cnsle, see the licensing nline Help. Hw d I access the licensing cnsle? 1. On the main SQLvdb Cnsle windw, click Help & Mre. 2. On the Help windw, click Manage SQLvdb License. This ptin pens the licensing cnsle. What is the trial license? By default, SQL virtual database installs with a limited-time trial license key that is valid fr the cmputer n which yu have installed the tl. When yu decide t mve frm a trial implementatin f SQL virtual database t yur prductin envirnment, cntact and btain a license key frm Idera. Hw des SQLvdb licensing wrk? SQL virtual database checks fr a valid license each time yu start the tl. A valid license is a trial r prductin key that has been registered fr the cmputer n which yu have installed the SQL virtual database tl. If yur license expires, such as when the trial perid ends, the Cnsle functinality will be limited t remving previusly created virtual databases and managing yur prduct license. Yu can cntinue t access existing virtual databases using tls such as SQL Server Management Studi. If yur license is deactivated, yu will n lnger be able t use the tl. Yu can re-install the tl and reuse a previusly deactivated prductin key.

29 Prepare backup files fr future data retrieval Use the Map Generatin utility t prepare yur backups fr future data retrieval. Yu can use this utility t autmatically generate virtual data files fr specific backups n a rutine basis. Fr example, yu can schedule a SQL Server jb that searches fr new backup files and then generates the crrespnding virtual data. By building the virtual data befre attempting t attach the backup file, yu can decrease the time required t create the virtual database and get faster access t yur data and bjects. The larger the database is, the mre time yu can save by preparing yur backups. Cnsider running this utility n backups fr missin-critical and sensitive databases, as well as databases that ften require bject recvery and data retrieval. Hw d I deply the utility? Yu can deply this utility t any cmputer. The utility des nt require access t the SQLvdb Service r any ther SQLvdb cmpnents. The utility setup prgram is autmatically installed with SQL virtual database (by default, C:\Prgram Files\Idera\SQL virtual database\install). Yu can share this flder acrss yur netwrk fr remte deplyments r dwnlad and run the utility setup prgram directly n the target cmputer. T deply this utility lcally: 1. Verify that the target SQL Server cmputer meets the SQL virtual database prduct requirements. 2. Lg nt the target SQL Server cmputer using an accunt that has lcal administratr privileges. 3. Cpy the utility setup prgram (SQLvdbMapGen.msi) t a file system flder n the target SQL Server cmputer. 4. Run the utility setup prgram. 5. Verify that the utility has been crrectly installed n this cmputer. By default, the utility is installed in the SQL virtual database Prgram Files directry. 6. T start using the utility, pen the Windws Cmmand Prmpt, and then enter sqlvdbmapgen. When shuld I use this utility? Yu shuld use the utility whenever yu need t decrease the time required t create a virtual database. Cnsider using this utility fr the fllwing types f backups: Large SQL Server backups SQLsafe 5.0 backups SQLsafe 6.0 backups that were nt run with the Generate metadata ptin enabled Hw d I run the utility in a jb? 1. Install the utility n the SQL Server cmputer that hsts the databases yu rutinely back up. 2. Use Micrsft Management Studi t cnnect t the assciated SQL Server instance. 3. Create a new jb fr this instance. 4. At the beginning f the jb, insert a new step.

30 5. Input the fllwing cde fr this step: sqlvdbmapgen -BackupFile MyFlder\MyBackupFiles\Name.bak -WindwsUsername targetdmain\accunt -WindwsPasswrd passwrd 6. Schedule the jb t run n a rutine basis, such as nce a week during ff-hurs. 7. Save the jb. 8. Test yur update by manually running the jb. Can I run this utility manually? Yes. T run the utility manually, pen the Windws Cmmand Prmpt, and then type the apprpriate cmmand when the prmpt displays. What ptins are available? Yu can specify any f the fllwing ptins: Individual backup files Specific data sets cntained in the backup files Cnnectin credentials Passwrd used t decrypt an encrypted SQLsafe backup file T see a detailed descriptin f each ptin, enter sqlvdbmapgen at the cmmand prmpt.

31 Specify where the virtual data files are stred Use the Basic tab n the Cnfigure windw t specify which flder SQLvdb uses t stres data files when creating a virtual database. Fr mre infrmatin abut virtual data files, review hw SQLvdb wrks. Fr mre infrmatin abut ther cnfiguratin tasks, see Cnfigure yur deplyment. Yu can type the directry path fr the flder yu want t use r click the brwse buttn t navigate t the flder. Once yu have specified the apprpriate flder, click OK. TIP Ensure the SQLvdb Service accunt has read and write access rights n the specified flder. Fr mre infrmatin, see the prduct requirements.

32 Tips and Tricks Idera prvides several tips and tricks s yu can get the mst value frm SQL virtual database. Yu can watch a vide demnstratin r read custmer testimnials n the Idera Web site ( The fllwing tasks are a small sample f the many ways yu can use yur virtual database: Create DDL scripts fr entire databases, tables, r rws Identify rws that were added, mdified, r deleted since yur last backup Recver stred prcedures Recver tables using bulk cpy Reprt n data changes using T-SQL queries Run histrical reprts using Micrsft Reprting Services View user, rle, r schema changes All f these tasks can nw be dne withut restring the database!

33 Create Virtual Databases Create virtual databases t access, cmpare, recver, and reprt n data frm previus backups f databases in yur envirnment. Fr example, yu can create multiple virtual databases, at different pints in time, frm backups f the same live database. This strategy allws yu t cmpare clumn values and schema bjects frm ne versin f the database t anther versin several days later withut restring the database. Yu can create a virtual database by either: Attaching a single full backup file Attaching multiple backup files, including transactin lg backups Virtual databases can be created thrugh the SQLvdb Cnsle r CLI. What is a virtual database? A virtual database (vdb) is a patent-pending sftware implementatin f a database that allws fr data strage and retrieval like a physical database. Because a virtual database acts like a physical database, yu can access any data r bject in the virtual database using T-SQL scripts, third-party applicatins, reprting tls, and database management tls such as Micrsft SQL Server Management Studi. Database management tls interface with and display the virtual database as a physical database. Each SQL Server instance can hst multiple virtual databases. What can I d with a virtual database? Any peratin that yu can perfrm n a physical database can be perfrmed n a virtual database. Likewise, applicatins that rely n getting infrmatin frm this database can cntinue using the virtual versin. Yu can use the built-in query tl t execute cmmands n bjects in this virtual database. Yu can als access this virtual database using Micrsft SQL Server tls, such as Management Studi, and ther third-party applicatins. Fr mre infrmatin, see ur tip and tricks. TIP Yu can mdify the data and bjects in the virtual database. Hwever, because the virtual database is based n archived data, yur changes will nt persist when yu recreate the same virtual database later. T preserve yur changes, back up the mdified virtual database and then create a new virtual database using thse backup files. Hw d I access the CLI? T access the SQLvdb CLI, start the Windws Cmmand Prmpt, and then enter sqlvdbcli t see which cmmands and ptins yu can use. Fr mre infrmatin abut the SQL virtual database cmpnents, see the prduct cmpnents.

34 Attach a single backup file Use the Attach Full Backup windw t easily create a virtual database frm a single full backup file. Fr mre infrmatin abut hw yu can use the virtual database, see ur tips and tricks. TIP When yu select a backup file, SQL virtual database pens the file in shared read mde. When Micrsft SQL Server r Idera SQLsafe attempts t append (write data t) r delete this file, the backup peratin will fail because the file is lcked fr read. If yur backup plicies r jbs are cnfigured t append new data sets t this file, change yur backup settings s that a new and unique file is created fr each backup. Which backup files can I use? Yu can select any full backup files created by Micrsft SQL Server r Idera SQLsafe. Fr mre infrmatin, check the supprted backup file frmats. Fields Backup File Type r brwse t the directry path and filename f the backup file yu want t use. Yu can specify a single file fr any full backup perfrmed n the target database. Backup files can be lcated n the lcal cmputer r a netwrk share. T specify a netwrk path, use UNC snytax (\\MyServer\MyFlder\MyBackup.bak). Hst Instance Type the name f the SQL Server instance that shuld hst the virtual database. Yu can brwse fr instances running n the lcal cmputer. Virtual Database Name Type a unique name yu want t use fr yur new virtual database. This name will be displayed in the Cnsle and in ther database management tls, such as Micrsft SQL Server Management Studi.

35 Attach multiple backup files The Attach Multiple Backups wizard lets yu build a live virtual database based n data frm specific backup files. With this wizard, yu will: Select the backup files yu want t include Select the date and time up t which yu want data Specify hw yu want the virtual database t display in the Cnsle and ther tls Fr mre infrmatin abut hw yu can use the virtual database, see ur tips and tricks.

36 Select backup files Use the Backup Files tab t select which backup files yu want t use t create yur virtual database. TIP When yu select a backup file, SQL virtual database pens the file in shared read mde. When Micrsft SQL Server r Idera SQLsafe attempts t append (write data t) r delete this file, the backup peratin will fail because the file is lcked fr read. If yur backup plicies r jbs are cnfigured t append new data sets t this file, change yur backup settings s that a new and unique file is created fr each backup. Which backup files can I use? Yu can select any full, differential, and transactin lg backup files created by Micrsft SQL Server r Idera SQLsafe. Fr mre infrmatin, check the supprted backup file frmats. Why are ne r mre f the selected backup files displayed in range text? After yu add yur backup files, SQL virtual database checks the LSN (lg sequence number) range f each file t ensure it is in sequence. When the LSN range is ut f sequence, the affected files d nt cntain all f the lgged transactins required t create an accurate virtual database. If an LSN range is ut f sequence, such as a gap between ne file and the next, the affected files are displayed in range text. T reslve this issue, add mre backup files t fill the LSN gap. Als cnsider verifying the backup files t ensure a cmplete backup had been perfrmed. Fr mre infrmatin, see Micrsft SQL Server Bks Online. Actins and Tasks Add a backup file t the list Click Add t select a backup file t use when creating this virtual database. T add a file, first type the path and filename in the prvided field, r brwse fr the files. Yu can als use wildcards t find flders r files that match a naming cnventin. If the selected backup file cntains data fr mre than ne database, yu will be prmpted t chse which data set yu want. If the selected backup file cntains encrypted data, yu will be prmpted t prvide the passwrd required t decrypt the file. If the backup was written (r striped) t multiple files, yu will need t add each file in the stripe. Brwse fr backup files Click the brwse buttn t find the files yu want t use. Cnfigure encryptin settings Select the listed backup files that are encrypted and then click Encryptin Settings t specify the passwrd required t decrypt the data. Remve a backup file frm the list Click Remve t delete a previusly selected backup file frm the list f files t use when creating this virtual database. Clumns and Fields

37 Created Prvides the date and time when the backup files were created (that is, when the crrespnding backup peratins were perfrmed). Database Prvides the name f the database whse data was archived in this backup file. Filename Prvides the name f the backup files yu selected. First LSN Prvides the LSN at which each backup file starts. Fr mre infrmatin abut LSN ranges, see Micrsft SQL Server Bks Online. Instance Prvides the name f the SQL Server instance hsting the archived database. Last LSN Type Prvides the LSN at which each backup file ends. Fr mre infrmatin abut LSN ranges, see Micrsft SQL Server Bks Online. Indicates which type f backup was perfrmed when the selected files were created.

38 Chse the target pint in time Use the Pint in Time tab t chse the exact date and time at which yu want t create the database. Yu can pick any date and time included in the data sets f the selected backup files. If yu d nt see the pint in time yu want, yu may need t chse different backup files. Fr example, t pick an hurly interval, select transactin lg backup files. Actins and Tasks Pick a date and time Yu can use either the slider r the calendar t pick the exact date and time yu want t recver. After yu select a date and time, SQL virtual database lists which data sets will be used t create the virtual database up t the selected pint in time. Pick an LSN SQL Server 2005 and later allws yu t use a LSN (lg sequence number) t identify the pint at which yu want t recver data. T recver up t a specific LSN range, select LSN frm the drp-dwn menu, and then chse the apprpriate backup file. Verify data sets Use the grid t verify which data sets will be used t create the virtual database up t the selected pint in time. Depending n the pint in time yu selected, SQL virtual database may nt need t use all the data sets available in the backup files. What is a pint in time? A pint in time prvides a histrical perspective f a physical database at the specified date and time. Yu can create multiple virtual databases, representing different pints in time, frm the same set f backup files. Fr example, yu can create three virtual databases that represent the physical database n Mnday, Tuesday, and Wednesday. Yu can then access data and bjects frm the database as it existed n Mnday, Tuesday, r Wednesday. A pint in time can help yu: Analyze different versins f the same database Cpy different versins f the same bject Cmpare changes in data and schema bjects frm ne time perid t anther Reprt n data that existed at a given date and time Hw d I use the slider? Use the slider t pick a pint in time during any hur f the mst recent day in the selected backup files. As yu hver ver the slider, the available time intervals display. T pick a time, click the crrespnding interval. Hw d I use the Calendar? Use the calendar interface t chse a date and time in any available mnth by selecting the apprpriate area n the displayed day. As yu hver ver a day, the available hur intervals display. T pick a time, click the crrespnding interval. The calendar interface indicates whether data is available fr a given date and time, based n the backup files yu selected. The calendar shws when different types f backups were perfrmed t help yu chse the crrect files s that yu have the data yu need.

39 Specify hw the Cnsle creates this database Use the Create As tab t specify hw SQLvdb shuld create yur new virtual database. TIP The specified name and descriptin will display in the Cnsle and in ther database management tls, such as Micrsft SQL Server Management Studi. Actins and Tasks Specify the hst instance Type the name f the SQL Server instance that shuld hst the virtual database. Specify the virtual database name Type a unique name fr yur new virtual database. Specify a descriptin Type a descriptin fr this virtual database. Use a descriptin that includes details abut this data set t help yu trublesht issues, administer yur databases, r recver specific bjects.

40 Review a summary f yur new virtual database cnfiguratin Review the prvided summary, and then click Finish. When yu finish this wizard, SQL virtual recvery will create a virtual database accrding t yur specificatins. After yu cmplete this wizard, the Cnsle will list yur new virtual database in the Welcme windw. Yu can use the built-in query tl t execute cmmands n bjects in this virtual database. Yu can als access this virtual database using Micrsft SQL Server tls, such as Management Studi, and ther third-party applicatins. If yu want t change a setting nw, click Back t return t the apprpriate windw. Yu can als change these settings later using the Edit buttn n the SQLvdb Cnsle Welcme windw.

41 Edit cnnectin credentials Use the Edit Credentials windw t specify different cnnectin credentials.sql virtual database will use these credentials t cnnect t the target SQL Server instance, read the specified backup files, and create the virtual database. By default, the SQLvdb Service credentials are used. Hwever, the service accunt credentials may nt have the apprpriate privileges n the target SQL Server instance r the directry where the backup files are stred. This issue is mre likely t ccur when backups have been striped acrss multiple files lcated in different netwrk shares. Ensure yu specify a Windws accunt that has the apprpriate permissins, and then click OK. Fr mre infrmatin, check the permissins requirements.

42 Reslve missing backup files Use the Missing Striped Backups windw t reslve issues caused by missing data files. This windw displays when a backup file yu selected is ne f several files created by a striped backup and yu did nt select all f the files required t create the virtual database. T specify mre backup files, type the path and filename f each file (r use the brwse buttn t navigate t the target file), and then click Add. Fr mre infrmatin abut hw striped backups wrk, see Micrsft SQL Server Bks Online.

43 Hw t use yur virtual database Yu can access yur virtual database using any third-party tl, such as: SQL admin tlset Multi Query tl SQL cmparisn tlset SQL Server Management Studi Fr mre usage ideas, see ur tips and tricks. Hw t use the Multi Query tl in the Idera SQL admin tlset 1. Click Multi Query frm the SQL admin tlset Launchpad. 2. Add a new query r pen an existing query. Fr mre infrmatin, see the SQL admin tlset nline Help. 3. Execute yur query against the selected targets. In this case, the selected targets shuld include the virtual databases yu want t query. Hw t use SQL Server Management Studi 1. Cnnect t the SQL Server instance that is hsting yur virtual database. 2. In the Object Explrer, expand the Databases nde. 3. Select yur virtual database frm the list. Each virtual database will display as a physical database. 4. Perfrm an actin r run a query. Fr usage ideas, see Tips and Tricks.

44 Test yur virtual database Yu can test yur new virtual database using Micrsft SQL Server Management Studi (Management Studi) r the built-in Query Database tl. With either applicatin, yu can test yur virtual database by perfrming simple T-SQL queries, such as testing whether yu can select data frm a specific table. When yu click Run Queries n the Welcme windw f the SQLvdb Cnsle, SQL virtual database starts the Management Studi tl. If Management Studi is nt installed n the lcal cmputer, SQL virtual database starts the built-in Query Database tl instead. Hw d I use the Query Database tl? Yu can immediately begin using the Query Database tl by typing r cpying a script in t the editr pane, picking the virtual database n which yu want t run yur script, and then executing the query yu entered. The fllwing actins and tasks are available frm this tl. Chse the target database Use the Target Database(s) field t select which virtual databases shuld be tested with this query. Run the query Click the execute buttn t run yur script. Cntrl hw yur query is run Use the Query tab n the Optins windw t set run prperties, such as the maximum number f returned rws and the executin timeut value. Change hw the editr pane displays yur cde Use the Editr tab n the Optins windw t set the editr pane prperties, such as whether t shw line numbers r highlight syntax errrs.

45 Edit yur Virtual Database Settings The Edit Virtual Database Optins wizard lets yu change the cnfiguratin f a virtual database. With this wizard, yu can: Change the data set by specifying different backup files Chse a different date and time Rename the virtual database r edit the descriptin When shuld I edit the virtual database settings? Yu shuld edit yur virtual database cnfiguratin when: Yu need t query r recver bject data frm a different time perid Yu want t change hw the virtual database is displayed in the SQLvdb Cnsle and ther third-party applicatins Hwever, yu may want t cnsider creating a new virtual database t use alng side the existing virtual database. This strategy can be useful when: Yu want t query data frm the same database at tw different time perids Yu need t track changes ver time, such as daily values f sensitive data Yu want t cpy r mve bjects, such as a table, frm ne database t anther Fr mre infrmatin abut tasks yu can perfrm n a virtual database, see tips and tricks.