Today Microsoft announced the General Availability of SQL Server 2017 will land on 2nd October!
Here at WARDY IT Solutions, we’ve put every release candidate and public preview through its paces and we’re super excited to hear the final version is less than one week away!
Here’s what we consider to be the most notable features:
Adaptive Query Processing
Query optimizer with Adaptive Query Processing can change the query plan if it identifies the actual row counts are different from the estimates or update memory grants based on changed requirements.
If you’re keen to see this in action, don’t miss this month’s QSSUG. Our very own Data Platform consultant, Prabhu Mohapatra, will be explaining and demoing the new capabilities.
Graph Database Support
Microsoft has included a graph database in the core database engine for modelling many-to-many relationships. They’ve introduced the concept of nodes and edges – both of which can now be associated with data properties. This is particularly exciting for organisations who are using predictive analytics applications and IoT.
SQL Server on Linux
SQL Server on Linux supports Microsoft’s vision for one platform, irrespective of the operating system. SQL Server 2017 supports a number of Linux platforms including Red Hat Enterprise Linux, Ubuntu, and even Docker containers. Microsoft has published this guide based on user-generated questions, explaining how to get started with SQL Server on Linux.
Python – SQL Server Machine Learning Services
Following the integration of R in SQL Server 2016, Microsoft has added a second language to the database engine – Python, renaming R Services to Machine Learning Services to accommodate for the latest arrival. You can now run Python scripts in SQL Server, or install Microsoft Machine Learning Server Standalone to deploy and consume R and Python models that don’t require SQL Server. SQL Server developers also have access to the Python ML and AI libraries available in the open-source ecosystem.
Are you ready for SQL Server 2017?
If you are keen to get up to speed with SQL Server 2017, use the form below to sign up for a free SQL Server 2017 whiteboarding session.
During this two-hour session, our Data Platform consultants will work with you to review your current environment and identify how SQL Server 2017 can play a part in your future strategy.