SQL Server Audit is a powerful feature that allows you to track and log events occurring in your SQL Server database. In this article, we will discuss two interesting enhancements that were introduced in the SQL Server 2008 Create Audit Screen.

On Audit Log Failure Options

In SQL Server 2012, two additional options were added for audit log failure. Previously, the only option available was to shut down the server when there was an audit log failure. However, with the new enhancements, you now have the ability to fail the operation or continue logging events even in the event of a log failure.

This new feature provides finer control over the behavior of the audit failure scenario. In situations where the target is not available for any reason and the audit cannot log the event, you can choose to continue attempting to log events. This means that the audit will resume logging once the failure condition is resolved.

This is an important feature because previously, the only option when the audit was failing was to shut down the server. However, there are cases where shutting down the server is not the ideal solution. In such scenarios, continuing with the business operations becomes the priority, and this option should be exercised.

It is worth noting that the new default value for this option is now “CONTINUE”. However, users have the flexibility to select “Fail Operation” where the audit will not attempt to log events when the target is available or continuing auditing is possible.

Maximum Rollover Files

Prior to SQL Server 2012, there were two options for managing log files – having an infinite number of log files or rolling over the files after a fixed number. However, the new enhancements introduced an option to keep a fixed number of files without any roll-over.

This enhancement provides additional control to users who want to save every single data and do not want to lose any critical information due to rollover. By specifying a fixed number of files, you can ensure that all the data is retained without the risk of losing any important information.

These enhancements in the SQL Server 2008 Create Audit Screen provide users with more control and flexibility when it comes to managing audit log failures and log file rollover. By leveraging these features, you can ensure the integrity and security of your SQL Server database.