SQL noob questions

[Malladine]

Hello - I am responsible for "managing" a SQL help desk and inventory database. Thing is, there seems to be no managing needed, as in the application is running well enough without my doing anything.

This doesn't really work for me though, i'd like to know more about the database, what kind of problems could be coming and what I should be doing in the way of maintenance to prempt them.

SQL Server Management Studio Express is the only tool I have, the database is SQL 2005.

A few more things I can tell you:
Autogrowth is enabled to 1mb increments with unlimited growth, currently the database is 525mb total and I am running regular backups.

 

[Cogman]

If the database is on a local server, then really aren't a whole lot of issues that can arise, apart from the server crashing.

Where things will go wrong 99 times out of 100 will be from an application logic error. Sooo, if you really want to preempt problems, look for them in the application layer.

Otherwise, sit back, relax, and give yourself a pat on the back for any easy job.

 

[Nothinman]

Make sure you understand how the backups work and have verified that restores work as expected. And if you're using the simple recovery method make sure everyone knows that you'll lose X amount of work should you have to restore.

 

[GeekDrew]

I feel the need to reiterate what Cogman and Nothinman said. Learning backup inside and out is where you need to focus first. There's more to it than the point-and-click wizard. Learn the TSQL, learn what SQL Server does, learn how to properly manage backups of SQL databases.

 

[KentState]

I would suggest firing up perfmon and seeing how the server is performing. Sounds like you are dealing with relatively small potatoes when it comes to databases. As long as the backups work, and you feel comfortable restoring them, then you having not much to worry about.