Are you planning to work as SQL Server Database Administrator, also known as SQL Server DBA?
If yes, then this post is for you. In this post, we shall discuss everything you need to know to become SQL Server DBA, including what SQL database is.
So, let’s get started…
If you want to work as a SQL Server Database Administrator or change careers to become one, you should learn as much as possible about the field and the job market before making a decision. There are a lot of things that you’ll need to know before you begin, such as to have a solid understanding of SQL.
Know that you may find it a little challenging at the outset. However, you can easily reach your goals with proper knowledge and the right direction. To make things a little bit simpler for you, we have provided an overview of the process to help you have some insight. Take a look…
Before we move to the ways to become SQL Server DBA, let’s understand what SQL database is.
What is an SQL database?
SQL stands for “structured query language.” It is a type of programming language that is used to store and process information in a relational database.
It was first introduced in the year 1970. At first, it was known as SEQUEL, which stands for structured English query language.
Later on, its name was changed to SQL. Oracle was the first company to market a SQL relational database management system designed for commercial use. Today it is in the mainstream.
Now more and more companies are using this programming language. Information in SQL is stored in a relational database in the form of tabular rows and columns. Here, each row and column represent a separate data attribute and the relationships that exist between the different data values.
You can search for, retrieve, update, and add information to the database all by using SQL queries. You can even use them to remove information. SQL is a wonderful tool that can be used to maintain and improve the performance of a database.
It is used in a wide variety of application kinds. Learning this language can significantly help data analysts and developers since it interfaces well with other languages. Learning SQL can help developers incorporate SQL queries within the Java programming language to construct high-performance data processing programs compatible with major SQL database systems like Oracle or Microsoft SQL Server. The best part about SQL is that it is very easy to learn.
What is the role of “SQL Database Administrator?”
SQL Database Administrator performs a crucial role in an organization. Data is a crucial component in today’s era. No organization can function without the proper administration of its databases. They need DBAs to make things easier. Depending on the company’s size and the number of other DBAs, they may be in charge of a single database or multiple databases.
A DBA’s involvement in a database or set of databases is typically extensive. DBAs keep an eye on the databases while they operate to make sure they aren’t being overworked. Cleaning and mending are just two of the precautionary measures they take.
When appropriate, they also lend a hand to project teams in the areas of database architecture and query optimization. They also provide assistance with establishing a database’s access controls and user accounts.
SQL DBAs need to have proper SQL database administrator skills in order to grow in the field. They MUST be proficient in a wide range of areas, including database design, query authoring, security, performance, and monitoring.
Let’s now take a look at the ways to become SQL Database Administrator. Here we go…
Steps To Become An SQL Server Database Administrator Know the Basics
1. Know the Basics
Of course, anything that you choose to do requires time, effort, and energy. Similarly, becoming a SQL Server DBA requires a significant investment of time, money, and effort before you begin.
Having a basic understanding of the role prior to embarking on it can help you significantly. It might be beneficial for you to perform some preliminary research first. Doing so will help you set goals that you can look forward to achieving.
2. Have a Solid Understanding of the Role
Before you commit to a career as a database administrator for SQL Server, it is, of course, essential to have a solid understanding of the functions that this job entails. As we said earlier, this role is crucial. Businesses place significant emphasis on this role because data is everything today. Due to the ongoing concerns over cybersecurity, organizations place a great deal of significance on data storage.
As a SQL Server DBA, you will be playing a crucial role in an organization. Your job will be to manage and monitor all aspects of a database, including its development, storage, and security, as well as its data retrieval. In addition, DBAs utilize specialized software to search for the most effective strategies for storing and organizing valuable data. Aside from that, it is their job to prevent unauthorized access to the stored data.
Oracle and Microsoft are the two common database management systems providers. Oracle, as we said earlier, is the first company to utilize SQL. Both Oracle and Microsoft require different kinds of database administrators. Database administrators typically choose to specialize in either Oracle or Microsoft SQL Server. Therefore, you’ll have to choose between the two before you begin.
While they are both SQL databases, there are significant differences in the way they are managed. Both Microsoft SQL Server DBAs and Oracle SQL Server DBAs should have a common understanding of administrative principles. However, the tools and procedures involved in putting those principles into practice are pretty different. This means that SQL database administrator skills may vary for both systems. Hence, you’ll have to choose which one you want to have a knack for.
4. Get Training
Of course, it is a technical job. You need to have proper training and a deep understanding of SQL database administrator skills to justify your role. Without proper training it will be challenging for you to grow in the field. With proper training you can always be sure of having a proper career.
Having training will help you begin as database administrator. Know that it is not some normal language that you can learn from some random source. It is serious stuff, and you need to have proper formal training to dive into the field.
The easiest approach to prepare yourself to become a SQL Server DBA if you do not already possess a degree in computer science is to join some professional course. Make sure the trainer you choose is an experienced professional in the field. Professionals possess the required knowledge of the field, and they can help you with the inside out of the system.
5. Get Certification
Certification is indeed needed. It’s not mandatory to have one; however, having a certification can help you significantly. You’ll have an advantage over those who don’t have one.
More often than not, employers look for candidates with proper SQL Server certification. It will help them know that you possess the SQL database administrator skills necessary to perform the duties in an accurate and effective manner.
It is advised to search for the right SQL DBA training provider. The thing is, the market is already swamped with many. Do enough research before you select any of them.
6. Seek Entry-Level Positions as Database Administrators
Once you have obtained the right training and certification, it’s time to put your SQL database administrator skills to use. And the best way to do this is to seek entry-level positions as a database administrator. If you’re already working in an organization, you can try it out internally (if possible) or find out a job somewhere else.
Know that only acquiring skills is not enough; you’ll have to put them to use. And that’s only possible when you’ll work in the field. By working in the same field, you will acquire experience that will help you stay updated and grow in the field.
More often than not, junior DBAs become part of a larger team of database administrators. Of course, as a junior DBA, you won’t have complete authority over the databases of the company. However, it will help you acquire hands-on experience and hone your skills in real time. And this is what is more important to begin as DBA.
7. Stay Up-to-Date
Last but not least, stay updated at all times. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned SQL server database administrator, you need to stay current. It is because technological advancements are continually resulting in better methods of doing things. Regularly check for new releases and patches to stay ahead of the game.
So, there you have it: the top 7 ways to become a SQL server database administrator. Follow these steps and begin your career as SQL Server DBA.
