The importance of PostgreSQL GUI tools cannot be overstated. They simplify database management by providing an intuitive interface that abstracts complex SQL commands. This not only makes database management accessible to less technical users but also increases productivity for experienced database administrators by automating repetitive tasks. Furthermore, GUI tools often come with additional features like data visualization, performance monitoring, and database migration tools, which can provide valuable insights and streamline database operations.

In essence, PostgreSQL GUI tools are instrumental in bridging the gap between the technical complexity of database management and the user-friendly interaction that modern users expect. Whether you’re a seasoned database administrator or a beginner just starting out, these tools can significantly enhance your PostgreSQL experience.

Overview of PostgreSQL GUI Tools

PostgreSQL GUI tools are comprehensive software applications designed to facilitate interaction with PostgreSQL databases through a user-friendly graphical interface. These tools provide a visual platform that allows users to create, manage, and manipulate databases without the need for extensive SQL knowledge or command-line expertise.

At their core, PostgreSQL GUI tools serve as an intermediary between the user and the database. They translate user actions performed in the graphical interface into SQL commands that the PostgreSQL database can understand. This includes tasks such as creating tables, inserting data, running queries, and even complex operations like database migrations and performance tuning.

These tools often come equipped with a variety of features designed to simplify database management. This includes SQL editors with syntax highlighting and auto-completion, data viewers for easy data exploration, schema viewers for visualizing database structure, and debugging tools for troubleshooting database issues. Some GUI tools also offer advanced features like data visualization, performance monitoring, and integration with other databases or third-party services.

The importance of using a PostgreSQL GUI tool lies in its ability to make database management more accessible and efficient. For beginners, these tools provide a gentle introduction to PostgreSQL, allowing them to interact with databases without the steep learning curve associated with SQL and command-line interfaces. For experienced database administrators, GUI tools offer a productivity boost by automating repetitive tasks and providing useful tools for database optimization and troubleshooting.

In a world where data is king, PostgreSQL GUI tools are the trusty advisors, helping users navigate the realm of database management with ease and efficiency. Whether you’re managing a small database for a personal project or administering a large database for a multinational corporation, these tools can make your PostgreSQL journey smoother and more enjoyable.

Top PostgreSQL GUI Tools

In the realm of PostgreSQL management, several GUI tools have emerged as leaders, offering a blend of functionality, ease of use, and robust features. This section will delve into four of the top PostgreSQL GUI tools: pgAdmin, DBeaver, Navicat, and DataGrip. We’ll explore a brief description of each tool, along with their respective pros and cons.

dbForge Studio for PostgreSQL

dbForge Studio for PostgreSQL is a cross-platform GUI client and a universal tool for PostgreSQL database development and management. This tool is compatible with various operating systems, including Windows, Linux, and macOS. It allows users to create, develop, and execute queries, as well as edit and adjust the code to their requirements in a user-friendly interface. Additionally, it provides functionality for PostgreSQL data reporting, data editing, data import and export, building pivot tables, and establishing master-detail relations.

Pros:

• Cross-platform: Compatible with Windows, Linux, and macOS.
• Comprehensive toolset: Offers a wide range of features for database management, including schema design, SQL coding, data import/export, and database comparison and synchronization.
• User-friendly: Provides an intuitive interface that allows users to easily tailor the code to their specific requirements.
• Data Reporting and Analysis: Facilitates the creation of PostgreSQL data reports, data editing, data import and export, building pivot tables, and establishing master-detail relations.

Cons:

• Commercial Software: Unlike some other database GUI tools, dbForge Studio for PostgreSQL is not free. While it offers a free trial, continued use requires a paid license.
• Learning Curve: While dbForge Studio is packed with features, it can be overwhelming for beginners. Some users might find it takes time to learn how to use all of its capabilities effectively.

pgAdmin

pgAdmin is an open-source, full-featured PostgreSQL management tool. It’s widely used due to its comprehensive set of features and compatibility with most operating systems.

Pros:

• Cross-platform: Works on Linux, macOS, and Windows.
• Stable and fast in responding.
• Comprehensive documentation and large community support.

Cons:

• Installation requires command-line knowledge, which can be challenging for beginners.
• The interface can be heavy and overwhelming for new users.

DBeaver

DBeaver is a GUI database tool that supports a variety of databases, including PostgreSQL.

Pros:

• Supports multiple databases, not just PostgreSQL.
• Easy to start with, requiring no command-line interface knowledge.
• Offers a free version for users to explore its features.

Cons:

• The desktop version’s performance depends on your machine capabilities.
• DBeaver may be more expensive than other database tools

Navicat

Navicat is a commercial database management tool that simplifies communication with databases, including PostgreSQL.

Pros:

• Easy installation process requiring minimal command lines.
• Offers a job scheduler to improve team productivity.
• Provides data visualization via an in-built Data Modeling Tool.

Cons:

• High pricing, with the cheapest plan starting from $119 per year.
• Some features, like Data Modeling Tool and Chart, are only available in the Enterprise plan.

DataGrip

DataGrip is a commercial database client from JetBrains, supporting multiple operating systems and databases.

Pros:

• Easy to use and configure.
• Offers plugins and dialects for various databases.
• Provides DDL and DML automation tools.

Cons:

• Not open-source, costs $199 a year.
• Primarily meant for querying, not suitable if you’re looking for an admin web app to be deployed in your cloud.

In conclusion, the choice of a PostgreSQL GUI tool largely depends on your specific needs, budget, and technical expertise. Each of these tools offers unique features and capabilities, and understanding their pros and cons can help you make an informed decision.

Comparison of PostgreSQL GUI Tools

When choosing a PostgreSQL GUI tool, it’s important to consider the features, compatibility, and pricing of each option. Below is a comparison table of five popular PostgreSQL GUI tools: dbForge Studio for PostgreSQL, pgAdmin, DBeaver, Navicat, and DataGrip.

In conclusion, each of these PostgreSQL GUI tools offers unique features and capabilities. Your choice will depend on your specific needs, budget, and technical expertise. It’s recommended to try out different tools and see which one fits your workflow best.

How to Choose the Right PostgreSQL GUI Tool

Choosing the right PostgreSQL GUI tool is a crucial decision that can significantly impact your database management efficiency. Here are some factors to consider when making your choice:

1. Compatibility: Ensure the tool is compatible with your operating system, whether it’s Windows, Linux, or macOS.
2. Features: Look for features that align with your needs. This could include SQL editing, data import/export, database comparison and synchronization, data reporting, and more.
3. Ease of Use: A user-friendly interface can make database management more accessible, especially for beginners or non-technical users.
4. Pricing: Consider your budget. While some tools are free, others require a paid license. Remember to check if the tool offers a free trial to test its features before making a purchase.
5. Support and Documentation: Good customer support and comprehensive documentation can be invaluable, especially when you encounter issues or need help understanding certain features.
6. Community and Reviews: Check out reviews and community discussions to get a sense of the tool’s reputation and the experiences of other users.

Remember, the best PostgreSQL GUI tool for you will depend on your specific needs, expertise, and workflow. It’s worth taking the time to explore different options and find the tool that fits you best.

The post Exploring the Best PostgreSQL GUI Tools: A Comprehensive Review appeared first on Hforge.

Sequel Pro Overview

On macOS, Sequel Pro is a MySQL GUI application. It is an open-source, cost-free tool that may be downloaded from the website of its creator. The tool is created and maintained by a group of developers who work to enhance its performance and capabilities. For managing MySQL databases, Sequel Pro offers a wide range of functions, including building and editing databases, tables, and indexes, importing and exporting data, and controlling users and permissions.

Features of Sequel Pro

There are a lot of features in Sequel Pro that can be used to manage MySQL databases. Sequel Pro has the following notable features:

1. Instinctive UI: The user-friendly interface of Sequel Pro makes database management and navigation simple. Users can customize the layout and color scheme of the interface to suit their preferences.
2. Editor of Visual Tables: Users can easily create and modify database tables with Sequel Pro’s visual table editor. Column data types can be changed, columns can be added and removed, and default values can be set.
3. Editor for Query: A powerful query editor with syntax highlighting, auto-completion, and code folding is included with Sequel Pro. Additionally, it supports multiple tabs, making it simple to work on multiple queries at once.
4. Data on Exports and Imports: Data can be easily exported and imported from MySQL databases with Sequel Pro. Data can be exported by users in CSV, SQL, and XML formats, and data can be imported from CSV and SQL files.
5. Management of Remote Databases: MySQL databases can be managed remotely with Sequel Pro. It offers a secure SSH tunneling feature, ensuring the safety of database connections.
6. Management of Users: Database users and permissions can be managed by users of Sequel Pro. Users and permissions can be created and modified using a straightforward interface.
7. Plugins: Plugins that enhance Sequel Pro’s capabilities are supported. Plugins can be installed by users to improve and add new features.

Advantages of Sequel Pro

Here are some of the advantages of using Sequel Pro:

1. Simple to Utilize: it has an instinctive point of interaction that makes it simple to utilize. Clients can rapidly get everything rolling by overseeing MySQL data sets without the requirement for broad preparation.
2. Adjustable Point of interaction: it permits clients to alter the point of interaction to suit their inclinations. Clients can change the design and variety plan to make it more agreeable for them to work with.
3. Distant Information base Administration: the tool gives a protected method for overseeing far-off MySQL data sets. Clients can lay out a safe SSH burrow and oversee data sets over the web.
4. Dynamic People group: Sequel Pro is an open-source apparatus with a functioning local area of engineers who work on working on its usefulness and execution. Clients can profit from the upgrades and bug fixes made by the local area.
5. Free and Open-Source: it is a free and open-source instrument. Clients can download and utilize it without causing any expenses.

Drawbacks of Sequel Pro

Here are some of the drawbacks of using Sequel Pro:

1. macOS exclusively: Sequel Pro runs just on macOS. Clients who work on other working frameworks can’t utilize Continuation Expert for overseeing MySQL information bases.
2. Restricted Usefulness: While Sequel Pro gives many highlights to overseeing MySQL data sets, it isn’t generally as strong as some other GUI instruments. Clients who require progressed usefulness might have to utilize different apparatuses.
3. No Programmed Pattern Relocation: it doesn’t give programmed composition movement when clients change data set outlines. Clients should physically alter the outline to refresh their data set.
4. No Inquiry Manufacturer: Sequel Pro doesn’t have a question developer, and that implies that clients should compose SQL questions physically.

Final thoughts 

Sequel Pro is a strong and solid MySQL GUI device for macOS. It gives many elements for overseeing MySQL data sets, including making and altering information bases, tables, and files, bringing in and trading information, and overseeing clients and consents. While it has a few disadvantages, for example, its restricted usefulness and absence of programmed blueprint relocation, an incredible instrument for clients who need a straightforward and instinctive point of interaction for dealing with their MySQL data sets on macOS. With its dynamic local area of designers and normal updates, Sequel Pro is probably going to keep on being a famous decision for macOS clients who need a solid and simple to-utilize GUI instrument for dealing with their MySQL information bases.

The post Sequel Pro: A GUI Tool for macOS for Managing MySQL Databases appeared first on Hforge.

The progressions in AI and IoT have led to a large number of utilizations, like smart HVAC systems in buildings, autonomous cars, and intelligent devices, to give some examples. With the assistance of AI intelligence, IoT gadgets can distinguish examples and oddities in information, recognize likely issues before they happen, and even propose answers to moderate them. IoT gadgets can likewise assist organizations with enhancing asset use, reduce time spent on tasks, and work on general effectiveness.

Yet, usage of  AI in custom IoT software development is accompanied by its portion of difficulties. From guaranteeing information protection and security to creating strong calculations that can deal with the intricacies of IoT information, there are a few obstacles that should be defeated to understand the capability of the new technology in IoT completely. In this article, we will dwell on the headways, applications, and difficulties of applying artificial intelligence in IoT development, and examine the prescribed procedures for building powerful AI- fueled IoT applications.

Advancements in AI and IoT

Whenever a new technology appears, businesses tend to postpone its implementation. They don’t always see the prospects and wait for others to try it out. However, the AI capabilities that we have discovered so far, prove that by delaying the innovation and digitalization of your business, you lose competitive advantage. Meanwhile, those who set their mind on digitilizaing and modernizing the legacy systems saw the fruits of their investments. AI enables IoT sensors to do more than tracking and tracing. It turned them into real sources of information that stream non-stop. What happens next? More advancements, more features, and more creative ways to drive ROI and move ahead of the competition.

Common applications of AI in IoT software development

AI-based IoT applications have a broad range of applications across industries. Some bright examples include:

1. Predictive Maintenance: By leveraging AI algorithms, IoT gadgets can anticipate when upkeep is required, diminishing margin time and expanding efficiency.
2. Smart Homes: IoT devices equipped with AI algorithms can learn and adapt to user behavior, naturally changing temperature, lighting, and different settings to establish an agreeable and energy-proficient climate.
3. Autonomous Vehicles: Self-driving cars leverage AI to process data from sensors, cameras, and other IoT devices to make decisions about navigation, road jams, and safe movement.
4. Precision Agriculture: AI-powered IoT devices can analyze data from sensors in crops and soil to optimize water usage, fertilization, and other agricultural practices.

What about the challenges?

While the integration of AI and IoT has numerous benefits, there are some challenges that have to be considered. Among them are the following:

1. Data Privacy and Security: With the rise in the number of IoT devices and data produced, data privacy and security have become an important concern.
2. Algorithm Complexity: Developing AI algorithms that can handle the complexity of IoT data is a significant challenge.
3. System Integration: Integrating AI algorithms with existing IoT systems can be complex and require great efforts.

Best Practices for Building AI-Powered IoT Applications

To overcome the challenges of leveraging AI in Logitech software development, it is essential to follow best practices. Here are some best practices:

1. Plan and Strategize: Start by defining your goals and objectives, and determine the data you need to achieve them.
2. Collect and Manage Data: Collect, manage, and store data from IoT devices in a secure and scalable manner.
3. Develop Robust AI Algorithms: Develop algorithms that can handle the complexity of IoT data, and ensure they are scalable and robust.
4. Ensure Data Privacy and Security: Implement data privacy and security measures to protect sensitive data from threats.
5. Continuous Learning: AI algorithms must be continuously monitored, tested, and updated to ensure they are optimized and provide the best results.

Final Thoughts

The combination of Ai and IoT will  change business conduct dramatically. By utilizing AI fueled IoT applications, organizations can advance tasks, lessen expenses, and reach the unprecedented level of efficiency. Although it comes with a price and a fair share of difficulties. To beat these difficulties, it is fundamental to follow best practices for building effective AI controlled IoT applications. With cautious preparation, improvement of AI calculations, and execution of information protection and safety efforts, organizations can open the maximum capacity of these innovations.

The post Leveraging AI in IoT Software Development: Advancements, Applications, and Challenges appeared first on Hforge.

Among the many database management systems, MySQL is, perhaps, the most popular. It is simple to configure and manage, fast, transparent, and reliable. The worldwide community of developers helps MySQL users track and resolve any technical problems. Also, the variety of professional database tools allow MySQL specialists to make the most of this system. 

The tools developed for MySQL jobs focus on designing, maintenance, and management of these databases. The primary purpose is to eliminate the manual routines as much as possible, accelerate the performance, and increase productivity. One of the benefits of such modern MySQL database tools is GUI. It gives the possibility to work in a visual mode without much coding, thus simplifying all kinds of tasks. 

Using the specialized tools helps much. But with all available options, it can be complicated to choose the right tool. Still, the software that suits your workflow perfectly and is convenient to use is a very significant factor in improving productivity. This article is meant to help you make the right choice. Here, we’ve collected the best-loved MySQL GUI-based database tools. Let’s have a closer look at them. 

GUI database tools for MySQL – the industry leaders and users’ favorites 

Here we offer you our top-10 of popular multi-functional database tools for MySQL databases. 

dbForge Studio for MySQL

The product from the famous dbForge line is an IDE that offers all the necessary functional features to develop and manage MySQL databases. You can create and configure databases, write queries from scratch and execute them directly, create stored routines, analyze the data, automate the jobs, etc. Studio is a toolset, but all tools for MySQL included in the Studio are available as stand-alone solutions. 

Main Advantages:

• Powerful code formatting for making the scripts accurate and easy to work with. The possibility to create and edit profiles allows for setting the code standards and matching them through all your projects. 
• Full support for MariaDB 
• CRUD Generator for making result scripts for the fundamental SQL statements (SELECT, INSERT, UPDATE, and DELETE) in separate SQL files

MySQL Workbench

Another well-known IDE for MySQL is Workbench. It is one of the most popular professional tools for developers and analysts, with numerous options to perform all kinds of tasks related to MySQL databases. It does the most necessary jobs – creates the databases and allows to explore and use them properly. Three editions (Community, Standard, and Enterprise) provide different levels of functionality according to the user’s needs. 

Main Advantages:

• Displaying the server status and server health along with server logs
• Absolute compatibility with all MySQL versions (the tool is developed by Oracle, which is the MySQL owner itself) 
• Cross-platform nature (Windows, Linux, Mac OS X)

SQLyog

The specialized Windows-based solution, SQLyog offers a robust list of features needed by any MySQL specialist. It allows for creating new databases, synchronizing schema and data in databases, backing up and restoring the databases, writing queries, etc. The solution is paid, with a free trial to evaluate the functionality before purchasing one of the paid editions (there are three of them). 

Main Advantages:

• The user interface with a set of themes to customize for the user’s preferences
• Creating and executing multi-threaded queries 
• Easy generation of DML statements for schema definition 

phpMyAdmin

One of the most popular web-based database tools is phpMyAdmin, written in PHP (easy to guess, isn’t it?). It is free of charge and easy to use. These features gained this tool a lot of devoted users, despite the lack of some advanced features. The overall functionality of this tool satisfies the needs of most website developers, and it is not necessary to have in-depth knowledge of MySQL to use this system efficiently. 

Main Advantages:

• Easy access from any location, as it is web-based 
• Easy setup and exploring 
• 80 language versions, covering both left-to-right and right-to-left

HeidiSQL

A lightweight and functional freeware software are one of the users’ favorite database tools. It performs all the necessary tasks related to data manipulation in databases and tables, setting and managing user rights, backing up and restoring the data, etc. The software is primarily meant for the Windows OS, but it also works on Linux with the Wine platform (required).  

Main Advantages:

• SSH tunnel for connecting to MySQL databases
• Batch-inserting binary files and ASCII into tables 
• Provides a portable version that works without installation and administrative rights 

Navicat for MySQL

A well-known toolset for database specialists, Navicat for MySQL works with MySQL, MariaDB, and cloud platforms. The available functionality lets the users perform all tasks required for database development and management. The product focuses on simplifying and automating the routines, saving time, and improving the overall functionality. 

Main Advantages:

• Cross-platform solution (Windows, Linux, Mac OS X)
• The Navicat Cloud – an internal service that allows the users to synchronize the settings, queries, virtual groups, and other data with the cloud and share them with coworkers at any location
• Printing the schedule reports (available for the Windows edition only)

Toad Edge for MySQL

One of the popular cross-platform (Windows and Mac OS X) database tools allows for doing all the fundamental tasks. Toad Edge includes many features, including schema comparison and syncing, data import and export, query monitoring, creating the database snapshots, and other options. 

Main Advantages:

• A powerful JSON editor
• The session viewer for managing the current sessions and queries, including tracking and terminating functionality
• Professional user support 24/7 

Sequel Pro

A freeware Mac OS-based tool for MySQL databases, Sequel Pro performs all fundamental tasks. Users can create, modify, filter, and delete databases and tables, write and execute queries, import and export data, etc. The tool is compatible with Mac OS X only, which is inconvenient for those users who prefer other OS platforms. 

Main Advantages:

• TCP/IP protocol support for the database connections 
• Compatible with all MySQL versions 
• User-friendly and lightweight 

Aqua Data Studio

A powerful IDE supports relational, cloud, and NoSQL databases. The focus of Aqua Data Studio is on visualizing data analysis and doing tasks in a visual mode. Users can compose and execute queries without typing codes, create the ERM diagrams, edit data visually, and do all the necessary tasks on the database development and analysis. 

Main Advantages:

• Comprehensive and engaging data visualization with the possibility to share them with coworkers and users
• The scripting development environment to create and debug scripts with the help of open APIs 
• Query execution plans with statistics

Valentina Studio

A popular GUI tool is meant to perform the standard database-related jobs. Users can create and edit databases and tables, compose queries, set the object relations, etc. The free edition of the software provides the basic functionality, but it covers such routines as creating diagrams, creating and editing database schemas, code completion, server administration jobs, and more. The Pro version is paid, but it provides advanced functionality, such as query builder, report designer, etc. 

Main Advantages:

• A set of database tools for continuous integration
• Supports MySQL and Valentina databases with Abstraction Links. Users can apply both API and SQL commands to work with links between tables and records.
• A free iOS version

Conclusion

The existing database tools for MySQL are many, and you can always find the right solution. There are both free and paid solutions. While the freeware tools like HeidiSQL or the Workbench free edition provide the basic functionality to do quintessential jobs, database professionals often need additional options. In this aspect, we’d recommend turning to advanced toolsets like dbForge Studio for MySQL, Navicat, Toad Edge, etc. 

The full-functional IDEs with graphical interfaces do the primary tasks – they help you eliminate manual routines, accelerate processes and boost productivity. No matter which solution you’ll choose, it will certainly allow you to simplify your life as a database pro. It is the reason why those database tools came into prominence. 

The post Top 10 of Most Helpful MySQL GUI Tools appeared first on Hforge.

Lots of companies use SQL Server. Even more database specialists with different specializations need convenient tools to operate the SQL Server-based databases. The most helpful database tools for SQL Server will be the focus of our article.

Microsoft SQL Server: professional tools for development and monitoring jobs

Here we are going to examine the following software solutions:

• Microsoft’s SQL Server Management Studio
• Microsoft’s Visual Studio
• dbForge Studio for SQL Server
• Developer and DBA tools (ApexSQL)
• DBeaver
• ●      SQL Toolbelt (RedGate)
• Notepad ++
• Spotlight on SQL Server
• Prometheus
• Zabbix

Let us start.

SQL Server Management Studio

SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS) is the best-known product for working with SQL Server. It is multi-functional, convenient, and free of charge. Many experts find it the most comprehensive product for SQL Server jobs. Besides, it is Microsoft’s own creation, and you will always get the latest software version and the detailed SSMS documentation at the official portal.

SSMS offers a bunch of features to perform all kinds of tasks related to the SQL Server database creation and operation:

• Creating, modifying, and deleting databases
• Importing and exporting data
• Composing and executing all kinds of SQL queries
• Setting up all types of backup and restore procedures
• Performance reports
• Working with AlwaysOn availability groups
• Setting up and monitoring query store
• Setting up and monitoring database engine logs
• Profiler and Extended events to monitor the performance
• Multi-editing

Etc.

Besides, SSMS offers such beneficial options as adding and grouping SQL Server instances (Registered Server) and creating subgroups. Further, users can send queries to such groups and subgroups or upload configured registered servers to share them with other developers, testers, and administrators.

Visual Studio Editor for SQL Server

Another product of Microsoft that is mostly mentioned together with SSMS. In brief, it is a compelling product that allows users to start, run, and complete software development jobs. With its help, developers can create desktop and mobile applications, websites, and web services.

Visual Studio serves for performing the following tasks mostly:

• View and edit the databases and codes in one whole
• Compare, edit, import, and export database schemas

On the other hand, the functionality of this tool does not include all the features and tools necessary to develop new software. Besides, some present features have limited capabilities to do all jobs correctly. It is possible to enhance the functionality of the product with different add-ins, though.

dbForge Studio for SQL Server

This product is one of the most popular SSMS alternatives from the famous dbForge database tools line. As a stand-alone solution, it complements the functionality of SSMS and makes it much more comprehensive. The software includes all the features for dealing with SQL Server databases (every feature is also available as separate software).

The following tasks are much easier with dbForge Studio for SQL Server:

• All kinds of database manipulations (create from scratch, edit and monitor existing databases, back up and restore, etc.)
• Database data and schema comparing and synchronizing
• Writing any SQL queries with Intellisense auto-completion and formatting templates to do it faster and keep up to the standards
• Comparison and synchronization of the database schema and data
• Managing changes in SQL Server databases through the source control systems
• Generating test data for databases
• Documenting the databases in details

And many more functions

The dbForge Studio for SQL Server package allows for implementing the database CI processes with full functionality. In general, this product is the most potent solution of all SSMS alternatives.

Developer and DBA tools (ApexSQL)

These popular products are enhancements that you can implement into SSMS and Visual Studio to use their advanced functionality in the habitual environment. The purposes of these tools differ according to the target users.

ApexSQL Developer tools are meant for the tasks on development and testing, among them:

• Designing databases from scratch
• Comparison of the data and schema in databases
• Formatting of the SQL codes
• Analyzing and documenting the databases
• Generating meaningful test data
• Unit testing
• Version control support

And other features

ApexSQL DBA tools have another scope which is the SQL Server administration:

• Backing up and restoring databases
• Optimizing indexes
• Reading transaction logs

Used together, ApexSQL tools for developers and DBAs allow the users to achieve comprehensive continuous integration and delivery processes.

DBeaver

DBeaver is popular as a free tool for SQL Server management and administration (the paid version is also available). It provides decent functionality in the free edition, making it one of the favorite choices for SQL Server users. The handiest options it provides are the following:

• Designing new databases
• Code writing and formatting
• Dashboards
• Searching for database objects
• Transaction Logs

This basic functionality is helpful by all means. However, this software does not have advanced options for developers, testers, and administrators that are present in other database tools.

SQL Toolbelt (RedGate)

Another powerful, multi-functional solution is designed for SQL Server databases. It is favored by developers, administrators, and testers due to its powerful features that help with all database-related tasks:

• Code analyzing and formatting
• Data and schema comparison in databases
• Data backups and recovery
• Index Manager
• Monitoring SQL Servers
• Generation of test data
• Continuous integration and auto-deployment of databases
• Searching for objects

Etc.

The RedGate product has impressive functionality, but it does not exceed the competitive products significantly. It is more on the level with competitors, but it is more expensive. That would be its biggest drawback.

Notepad ++

This simple and free editor works with T-SQL scripts as well. Of course, this app’s functionality is very limited in comparison with full-functional IDEs. However, you can do the tasks on viewing and editing scripts using Notepad++. As it supports many programming languages, you can be sure to get the scripts displayed and manipulated correctly.

This simple editor is fine when you only need to edit the contents, search for particular code fragments, or compare large files. For instance, SSMS can freeze when displaying large codes with thousands of code lines. Notepad++ processes such code chunks effortlessly.

SQL Server Monitoring Tools

SQL Server monitoring is among the most crucial jobs. There are specialized tools meant for this specific purpose, and we are going to review them separately. So, the following solutions will be in our focus:

• Spotlight on SQL Server
• Prometheus
• Zabbix

Now, let us have a closer look at them.

Spotlight on SQL Server

Spotlight on SQL Server is a monitoring and diagnostic tool that helps you quickly find and fix the current problems on SQL Server, including both the server and database issues. This tool offers decent functionality to perform the following tasks:

• Collect the basic stats data on both the server and databases located on it
• Collect and analyze the information on queries and their execution plans
• Correlate the queries performance with all other meaningful metrics, such as CPU performance, logical reads, etc.
• Detect and analyze index fragmentation
• Create and adjust standard and custom alerts for any metric with handy templates
• Explore and display queries at any specific point in time
• Provide visual reports on all metrics

Etc.

Besides the Spotlight on SQL Server solution, you might also have heard of Foglight for SQL Server. It is a more advanced, cross-platform software with multiple databases’ support.

Zabbix

Zabbix is a popular open-source monitoring tool that delivers detailed information about the SQL Server performance and triggers that caused this or that issue. There is a convenient visual dashboard with many graphics and rich possibilities for customization.

The most significant drawback of Zabbix is the absence of the option to show the query at a specific point in time.

Prometheus/Grafana

Prometheus is the solution for SQL Server that lets the operators monitor the server’s vital signs. It is mostly used with the Grafana client side. Together, these solutions provide insights into SQL Server time-driven data. Prometheus can export the data and store it to create alerts and a dashboard for viewing the server health. The product is cross-platform, and it covers the server and database monitoring tasks.

Conclusion

In this article, we’ve collected and presented the best-known, functional, and user-friendly solutions for SQL Server for your consideration. Whether you are a database developer, analyst, or administrator, you will make your life easier with them if you’ve found a suitable solution for your needs.

Some specialists use the default Microsoft’s solutions with additional third-party software to complete them. If you prefer an SSMS alternative with advanced functionality, you might choose a toolset like dbForge Studio for SQL Server or DBeaver. In any case, it is up to you to decide which option suits you best. All tools mentioned in this article are available for testing and evaluation.

The post Best SQL Server tools appeared first on Hforge.

Check upcoming Events

The event will be useful for arbitrageurs, affiliates, webmasters, advertisers, bookmakers, gambling operators, SEO experts and everyone, who works in digital-marketing or just dives into the world of arbitrage.

The program includes lectures from industry professionals, a demo zone, various networking formats and a private after-party. Analysis of successful cases, comparison of old and effective ways to monetize traffic, analysis of trend instruments.

Among the topics to be discussed at the conference:

• 5 secrets of making money on native arbitrage.
• Successful team building experience in gambling before and after legalization.
• ROI 100+ when leaking from Facebook to gambling apps.
• Properly designing content chains and delivering them through the latest targeting tools.
• Managing large projects in a highly competitive gambling environment.
• Legal risks of entering the market by an online operator.

The main power of the conference is in networking. This year it will be implemented in two formats: online and offline.
Directly at the event will be organized speed-dating. VIP-ticket holders will be able to continue communication with speakers, exhibitors and sponsors of the event at a private party.
There was created a chat room in Telegram for online networking. There participants and guests of the conference will get acquainted with each other, ask questions and exchange contacts.

The program of the event is 80% complete. While all the speakers have not yet been announced, tickets are cheaper. Be sure to buy tickets at a discounted price and don’t forget to tell your colleagues, friends, and anyone else who might be interested about the great offer.

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Something has changed…

Customers are no longer looking for products or services. Clients are choosing from those who have found them themselves. Perhaps even before the need is there. And this is no longer a fantasy, but an everyday occurrence in digital marketing.

How do you incorporate it into your business? How not to drain the budget? How do you get leads and customers online? What’s new, and what’s still working well the old in PPC marketing?

This day will give you the ultimate immersion in the algorithms of advertising on Google, LinkedIn and Facebook. No water or unnecessary terms! Everything is simple and straight to the point! Top experts will talk about launching and setting up campaigns. They’ll focus on real-world experience, results, and infographics. The conference will have it all – the successes, mistakes, challenges and the successes that come after overcoming them.

You will learn the tools and tips from some of the best companies on the market:

• about the new format of Discovery Ads in the report from Google
• on scaling the project in a world of automation and multichannel
• on the scaling of remarketing on Facebook for the app and website
• on the business benefits of LinkedIn

After the conference, you’ll understand if it’s worth investing in advertising and how to do it to make the investment pay off. You’ll learn about new technologies and how to use them properly for your business. Get inspiration from the best in the industry.

Register and reserve your spot at the conference today. Watch from anywhere in the world online, ask questions during the live stream and get answers.

For anyone who isn’t ready to be tethered to a monitor all day, there’s an option to purchase a recording of all the talks and presentations.

The post Online Conference: Clients are choosing. appeared first on Hforge.