SQL 2005 books

royal

So, I'm a newbie when it comes to SQL. I don't want to be a DBA by any means, I just want to know my way around SQL, know how to secure it, know how to do enough in it so I can configure it for other applications such as MOM/SCOM/etc... Anyone have a good book for this? I don't want something that is 1000 pages, I'm thinking more around the 400-500 page mark.

I was thinking of the following book, but it only has 3 reviews. Anybody else have comments on it or another book that fits the description I am looking for?
http://www.amazon.com/Beginning-SQL-Server-2005-Administration/dp/0470047046/ref=pd_bbs_11/002-2716017-0100818?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1184210027&sr=8-11

Thanks!

blargoe

There is an "administrator's pocket consultant" for SQL 2005 from MS Press. I haven't purchased it yet but typically these type of books from MS are a great reference for what you are looking to do.

BeaverC32

I have the Pocket Consultant...VERY nice book for about $20.
http://www.amazon.com/Microsoft-Server-Administrators-Consultant-Pro-Administrators/dp/0735621071/ref=pd_bbs_11/102-1833068-9278544?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1184261681&sr=8-11

I'm in the same boat as you...I don't necessarily want to be a DBA, but need to know configuration options...so, I am going to pursue the MCTS exam for SQL Server (which focuses on configuration). Might want to give it a try.

I have the MSPress book for that exam as well: http://www.amazon.com/MCTS-Self-Paced-Training-70-431-Pro-Certification/dp/073562271X/ref=pd_bbs_2/102-1833068-9278544?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1184261839&sr=8-2

royal

Thanks for the info. I think I will get the Pocket Administrator book for $20. I'm not interested in taking any exam for SQL. If I do this exam and my manager finds out about it (through the transcript), suddenly I will be a guy who can go out for SQL jobs which I do not want!

JDMurray

If you have SQL Server 2005 installed on a server, run the Windows Updates and download the Books for SQL Server 2005 May 2007 update. I think it's like 125MB in size.

blargoe

Good point, the books online are nicely done.