Wait Type BROKER_TASK_STOP

Wait statistics, in the context of SQL Server, refer to the amount of time that a query spends waiting to access data in the database. When a client application requests data from the database, the request is placed in a queue and the client application must wait for its turn to access the data. The time that the query spends waiting is called a "wait" and is tracked by SQL Server. This information can be used to identify potential performance bottlenecks and optimize the performance of the database. Wait statistics are commonly used by database administrators to diagnose and troubleshoot performance issues in SQL Server.

SQL Server’s wait types provide valuable information about where processes may encounter delays. The BROKER_TASK_STOP wait type is related to Service Broker, a SQL Server feature used for messaging and asynchronous processing. This wait type appears when SQL Server is stopping a Service Broker task. Understanding this wait type can help diagnose issues with Service Broker and ensure smooth task termination.

What Is the BROKER_TASK_STOP Wait Type?

The BROKER_TASK_STOP wait type occurs when SQL Server stops a Service Broker task. This could happen because a task has completed its operation, the Service Broker feature has been disabled, or the server or database is shutting down. The wait ensures that all resources associated with the task are cleaned up properly before the task is fully stopped.

When Does BROKER_TASK_STOP Appear?

This wait type can occur in several scenarios, including:

• Message Processing Completion – When a Service Broker task finishes processing a message and is being stopped.
• Server or Database Shutdown – When SQL Server or a database with Service Broker enabled is shutting down.
• Service Broker Disablement – When Service Broker is disabled on a database, all active tasks are stopped.
• Queue Management – During the cleanup of Service Broker queues, if tasks are terminated as part of maintenance or troubleshooting.

Why BROKER_TASK_STOP Waits Matter

Although this wait type is expected in certain situations, frequent or prolonged BROKER_TASK_STOP waits may indicate potential issues. Common causes include:

• High Message Volume – A large backlog of messages in Service Broker queues can delay task termination.
• Resource Contention – Limited CPU, memory, or disk resources can slow down the stopping process for tasks.
• Locks or Blocking – Blocking issues can prevent tasks from completing and being stopped cleanly.
• Misconfigured Queues – Poorly configured Service Broker queues may cause delays in task termination.

How to Address BROKER_TASK_STOP Waits

If this wait type appears frequently or for extended durations, consider these strategies:

• Clear Backlogs – Monitor and process messages in Service Broker queues to reduce the number of active tasks that need to be stopped.
• Optimize Resource Usage – Ensure that sufficient CPU, memory, and disk resources are available for Service Broker operations.
• Resolve Blocking Issues – Use dynamic management views or Activity Monitor to identify and resolve blocking transactions or locks.
• Check Queue Configurations – Validate the configuration of Service Broker queues and endpoints to ensure they are optimized for your workload.
• Schedule Maintenance – Perform Service Broker-related maintenance during off-peak hours to reduce the impact of task stopping operations.

Monitoring BROKER_TASK_STOP Waits

To monitor this wait type effectively, use the Historic Waits Monitoring feature in Database Health Monitor. This tool allows you to track wait statistics over time, identify trends, and pinpoint the causes of delays in Service Broker operations. Regular monitoring helps you take proactive steps to optimize performance and maintain system stability.

Stedman Solutions specializes in SQL Server performance tuning and Service Broker optimization. Whether you’re experiencing BROKER_TASK_STOP waits or need assistance with other SQL Server challenges, our Database Health Monitor provides powerful insights, and our managed services deliver expert support to keep your SQL Server environment running efficiently. Contact us today to learn how we can help improve your SQL Server performance.

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Applies to

Related Waits

See Also

• More About BROKER_TASK_STOP