Create SQL Server Alias using CliConfg.exe if you don't have SQL Configuration Manager

source:
https://sqlandme.com/2011/05/05/create-sql-server-alias-cliconfg-exe/

Set DEADLOCK_PRIORITY to update Database in Single_User mode

If you need to access a Database in Single_user mode, to either take it offline or change to MULTI_USER, change the DEADLOCK_PRIORITY so your process does not get picked as deadlock victirm.

SET DEADLOCK_PRIORITY HIGH

--KILL 58   -- kill the session using the database

ALTER DATABASE [DB_NAME] SET OFFLINE WITH ROLLBACK IMMEDIATE

--ALTER DATABASE [DB_NAME] SET MULTI_USER WITH ROLLBACK IMMEDIATE

SET DEADLOCK_PRIORITY NORMAL

Unable to manage cluster using failover cluster manager = Start the Server service

I had trouble connecting to my cluster in Failover Cluster Manager today and Google found me this

Easy resolution
Open services console and start the Server service.

Unable to manage cluster using failover cluster manager. Error Received: "Connection to the cluster is not allowed since you are not an administrator on the clu...

Changing the default SQL Server backup folder, using SSMS Facet

I found out that I cannot input a file share location during SQL Server 2014 installation, under Database Engine Configuration -> Data Directories tab -> Backup directory (I could do it in 2008 for sure)
e.g. \\fileserver\sql_backup

Therefore I had to input a local Backup path, and change the setting after install

I always thought I had to hack the registry (something like changing the key value in Computer\HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Microsoft SQL Server\MSSQL10_50.MSSQLSERVER\MSSQLServer, value: BackupDirectory)

But instead there's an easier way, by using SSMS -> right-click and choose "Facet"

Source:
The old registry way - Changing the default SQL Server backup folder
The NEW Facet way - Changing the default SQL Server backup folder

The application is unable to start correctly 0xc0000005 after windows update >> Uninstall Microsoft Update

I don't know how this Windows Update got by Microsoft QA but be warned - it has caused issue on 2 of our Windows 2008 R2 Enterprise servers.

I had to uninstall the KB and reboot.
FYI: I didn't do the strikeout steps, and both reboot times were normal and not long

the application is unable to start correctly 0xc0000005 after windows update

1. Disconnect from the internet  

2. Open Control Panel

3. Open Program & Features

4. Click "View installed updates" on the left-hand side

5. Find "Security update for Microsoft Windows (KB2859537)" under the Microsoft Windows section

6. Uninstall that update and restart you PC (may take a very-VERY long time to configure)

7. Go to Windows Updates and hide  (KB2859537)

8. Reconnect to the internet

9. Fix your System Restore feature; You might have to remove a fake C: drive and enable System Restore on the correct Windows drive.