When it comes to optimizing the performance of your SQL Server, there are several factors to consider. One important aspect is the file system on which your data is stored. In this article, we will discuss some best practices for improving the performance of the NTFS file system specifically for SQL Server.

Disable Indexing on Disk Volumes

By disabling indexing on the disk volumes where your SQL Server data is stored, you can reduce unnecessary overhead and improve performance. Indexing is a feature that allows for faster searching of files, but it may not be necessary for SQL Server data files.

Disable Generation of 8.3 Names

Another suggestion is to disable the generation of 8.3 names. These names are short versions of file names that were used in older versions of Windows. Disabling this feature can help improve performance by reducing the amount of metadata that needs to be stored and managed.

Disable Last File Access Time Tracking

By disabling the tracking of last file access time, you can reduce the overhead of updating this information for each file. This can be particularly beneficial for SQL Server data files, as they are typically accessed frequently and the last access time may not be relevant for performance monitoring.

Keep Some Space Empty on Drive

It is recommended to keep some space empty on the drive where your SQL Server data is stored. This allows for better performance and prevents fragmentation. A general guideline is to keep at least 15% of the drive space free for optimal performance. However, this suggestion is specifically applicable to Filestream Data storage volumes.

Defragment the Volume

Regularly defragmenting the volume where your SQL Server data is stored can help improve performance. Fragmentation occurs when files are split into multiple fragments on the disk, leading to slower read and write operations. By defragmenting the volume, you can rearrange the file fragments and optimize data access.

NTFS Allocation Size

One aspect that often sparks debate is the NTFS allocation size. Increasing the allocation size, particularly for volumes that store Filestream data, can reduce fragmentation. However, it is important to note that the impact may vary depending on the specific system and the type of files stored. It is recommended to perform proper testing before making any changes to the allocation size.

These are some of the best practices for improving the performance of the NTFS file system for SQL Server. However, it is important to consult with your IT Infrastructural Admin before implementing any changes, as improper configuration can potentially damage your system.

If you have any additional suggestions or experiences related to NTFS file system performance for SQL Server, please feel free to share them in the comments section below. Your insights can contribute to the community’s knowledge base and help others optimize their SQL Server performance.

Lastly, it is worth mentioning that these suggestions are primarily applicable to traditional hard disk drives. If you are using solid-state drives (SSD) with large databases, it is recommended to consult with experts or conduct further research, as the performance considerations may differ.