Upgrade Recommendations

The Upgrade Recommendations report provides an analysis of current SQL Server storage usage and suggests appropriate disk allocations for optimal performance. This report helps database administrators plan for storage expansion, ensure sufficient disk space for operations, and align database files with best practices.

Report Sections

The report consists of a recommendations table, which outlines current storage usage and proposed upgrades for different SQL Server components, including log files, data files, backup storage, and TEMPDB.

Upgrade Recommendations Table

This table displays:

  • Item – The type of SQL Server storage being evaluated.
  • Current Size – The current amount of disk space used.
  • Proposed Drive Letter – The recommended disk location for optimal performance.
  • Proposed Size – The suggested new size to accommodate future growth and maintain efficiency.

Understanding the Report

  • Log File Sizing – SQL Server log files can grow significantly, especially in high-transaction environments. Proper allocation prevents auto-growth events that can slow performance.
  • Data File Growth – Ensuring adequate space for data files minimizes fragmentation and improves performance.
  • Backup Storage Planning – Regularly evaluating backup sizes ensures sufficient disk space and prevents failures due to storage shortages.
  • TEMPDB Optimization – TEMPDB plays a crucial role in query execution. Proper sizing prevents performance degradation caused by tempdb contention.

Recommended Actions

  • Review Drive Allocations – Ensure database files are distributed across appropriate drives to balance I/O workload.
  • Monitor Growth Trends – Regularly review database file sizes to anticipate future storage needs.
  • Optimize Backup Storage – Ensure backups are stored on reliable, high-speed storage with enough retention space.
  • Adjust TEMPDB Allocation – If TEMPDB usage is high, consider moving it to a dedicated fast disk.

For expert SQL Server performance tuning and storage optimization, consider Stedman Solutions’ SQL Server Managed Services.

Contact us for a free 30 minute consultation.