This article provides an overview of SQL Server Query Store, a feature that helps monitor query performance and diagnose issues over time. By capturing query execution history, runtime statistics, and execution plans, Query Store enables database administrators (DBAs) to identify performance regressions, analyze query behavior, and troubleshoot performance bottlenecks efficiently. Learn how to leverage Query Store to track query performance, detect plan changes, and resolve performance issues for better database optimization.

Environment

SQL Server 2016 and above

Situation

SQL Server Query Store is a feature introduced in SQL Server 2016 that helps capture and store query performance data over time. It automatically tracks the execution history of queries, their plans, and runtime statistics. This allows database administrators (DBAs) to monitor query performance and identify performance regressions or changes in query behavior.

Why use Query Store for performance issues?

• Track Query Performance: Query Store collects detailed execution statistics, enabling DBAs to identify slow-running queries, performance bottlenecks, and resource-heavy operations.

• Plan Analysis: It stores query execution plans, making it easier to spot plan changes that might negatively impact performance.

• Historical Data: With Query Store, DBAs can analyze performance trends over time, making it easier to pinpoint when performance issues started or detect patterns that affect system efficiency.

• Easy Troubleshooting: By providing insights into query performance, execution plans, and their changes, Query Store simplifies troubleshooting and resolution of performance-related problems.

Overall, SQL Server Query Store is a valuable tool for monitoring, diagnosing, and resolving performance issues, ensuring the database runs efficiently over time.

Additional Information

The following links provide additional information on SQL Server Query Store.

https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/sql/relational-databases/performance/monitoring-performance-by-using-the-query-store?view=sql-server-ver16

https://www.sqlshack.com/sql-server-query-store-overview/