Expert SQL Server 2016 Database Management: 70-764 Certification Course

Comprehensive 70-764 SQL Server 2016 Administration Course with Hands-On Labs and In-Depth Theory

What You Will Learn From This Course

• Authenticate and manage users in SQL Server
  
  

• Assign server-level and database-level roles.
  
  

• Grant permissions to users for accessing SQL Server resources
  
  

• Secure data using encryption and auditing methods
  
  

• Understand and implement recovery models and backup strategies.
  
  

• Perform SQL Server database backups and restores.s
  
  

• Automate routine database management tasks
  
  

• Configure security for SQL Server Agent
  
  

• Set up alerts and notifications for proactive monitoring.
  
  

• Monitor SQL Server infrastructure performance.e
  
  

• Manage SQL Server using PowerShell for efficient administration. on
  
  

• Track and audit access to SQL Server environments
  
  

• Troubleshoot and resolve SQL Server issues
  
  

• Import, export, and migrate data across databases
  
  

Learning Objectives

This course is designed to equip participants with the practical skills and theoretical knowledge necessary to administer SQL Server 2016 databases efficiently. By the end of this part of the course, learners will be able to:

• Understand the SQL Server architecture and its components
  
  

• Implement user authentication and role-based access control.
  
  

• Manage permissions and access rights for both servers and the database.
  
  

• Configure auditing and encryption to secure sensitive data
  
  

• Develop strategies for backup and recovery to maintain data integrity.
  
  

• Automate administrative tasks to improve efficiency and reduce manual errors.
  
  

• Utilize SQL Server Agent for job scheduling and security configuration.
  
  

• Set up alerting mechanisms to proactively monitor SQL Server environments.
  
  

• Use PowerShell scripts to manage databases and automate administrative tasks.
  
  

• Monitor and maintain SQL Server performance using the built-in tool.s
  
  

• Perform troubleshooting to identify and resolve database issues quickly.
  
  

• Facilitate data import, export, and migration between different databases.
  
  

This part focuses on building a strong foundation in SQL Server administration, emphasizing practical scenarios and lab exercises. Learners will gain hands-on experience in implementing security measures, managing users, and automating database tasks. By understanding the core concepts of database infrastructure management, participants will develop confidence in maintaining a secure and high-performing SQL Server environment.

Target Audience

This course is intended for IT professionals, database administrators, and developers who are responsible for managing and maintaining SQL Server databases. The target audience includes:

• Database administrators seeking to enhance their SQL Server 2016 administration skills
  
  

• Developers who work with SQL Server to deliver data-driven applications
  
  

• IT professionals preparing for the Microsoft 70-764 certification exam.
  
  

• System engineers responsible for SQL Server deployment and maintenance
  
  

• Professionals aiming to improve database security, performance, and reliability.y
  
  

This course is suitable for learners at all levels, from those new to SQL Server administration to experienced professionals looking to update their skills for SQL Server 2016. The curriculum is structured to provide a balance between theory and hands-on labs, ensuring that participants gain practical experience in real-world scenarios.

Requirements

Participants should have basic familiarity with the Microsoft Windows operating system and its core features. A fundamental understanding of relational database concepts and SQL language basics is also recommended. While no advanced knowledge is required, learners with prior experience in database administration will benefit from accelerated learning and more in-depth practical exercises.

The course provides a structured pathway for gaining practical skills in SQL Server administration, covering both fundamental and advanced topics. It is designed to be accessible to beginners while still offering valuable insights for experienced administrators seeking to deepen their expertise.

Prerequisites

• Basic knowledge of the Microsoft Windows operating system and its core functionalities
  
  

• Understanding of relational database concepts, including tables, queries, and relationships
  
  

• Familiarity with SQL syntax and basic query execution
  
  

• General awareness of network concepts and IT infrastructure is helpful but not mandatory.
  
  

These prerequisites ensure that participants can focus on learning the practical and theoretical aspects of SQL Server 2016 administration without being slowed down by unfamiliar foundational concepts. The course also provides context and explanations for learners who may have limited prior experience, allowing them to build confidence in managing SQL Server databases.

This first part of the course emphasizes the importance of understanding SQL Server infrastructure and administration from both a theoretical and practical perspective. Participants will begin by exploring user management, authentication, and authorization, learning how to configure permissions and roles effectively. Security is a major focus, and learners will gain hands-on experience implementing encryption and auditing features to protect sensitive data.

Backup and recovery strategies are also covered in detail, enabling participants to develop robust plans to safeguard database integrity. The course introduces automation techniques to streamline database management tasks, demonstrating how SQL Server Agent can be used for scheduling jobs and alerts, improving efficiency, and reducing manual intervention.

PowerShell is introduced as a powerful tool for automating SQL Server administration. Learners will practice using scripts to manage databases, monitor server performance, and track access to ensure compliance with security policies. Additionally, the course teaches methods for importing, exporting, and migrating data, giving participants the skills needed to handle data movement across different environments efficiently.

Course Modules / Sections

This SQL Server 2016 Administration course is organized into carefully structured modules that provide both theoretical knowledge and hands-on practical experience. Each module focuses on a critical aspect of SQL Server database administration, ensuring a progressive and comprehensive learning experience. The modules are designed to build a strong foundation while advancing toward more complex administrative tasks and solutions.

The first module covers SQL Server architecture and core components, providing participants with a deep understanding of how SQL Server operates and how its components interact to manage data efficiently. Learners will explore the SQL Server engine, instance configuration, and database structures, gaining insights into performance and security considerations.

The second module focuses on security and user management. Participants will learn how to authenticate and authorize users, assign server-level and database-level roles, and implement permission policies to safeguard data. Practical labs will allow learners to configure security settings, audit user activity, and enforce compliance standards.

The third module emphasizes backup, recovery, and high availability strategies. Learners will understand the different recovery models, plan and execute backups, and restore databases under various scenarios. This module also covers disaster recovery planning and the implementation of SQL Server features that ensure minimal downtime and data loss.

The fourth module delves into automation and job scheduling. Participants will learn to configure SQL Server Agent, set up automated tasks, and implement alerting and notification systems. Practical exercises will focus on creating jobs, configuring schedules, and monitoring execution results to ensure smooth database operations.

The fifth module introduces PowerShell for SQL Server administration. Learners will explore scripting techniques to automate repetitive tasks, manage databases, monitor performance, and perform security audits. Hands-on labs will reinforce scripting concepts and enable participants to implement automation effectively.

The final module centers on monitoring, troubleshooting, and performance tuning. Participants will learn to track database activity, monitor server health, identify potential bottlenecks, and optimize SQL Server performance. Practical scenarios will help learners develop troubleshooting strategies and apply corrective measures for maintaining a reliable and efficient database environment.

Key Topics Covered

This course covers a wide range of key topics essential for SQL Server 2016 administration. Participants will gain knowledge and skills in areas including security, backup and recovery, automation, monitoring, and performance tuning. The key topics include:

• SQL Server architecture and core components
  
  

• Installation and configuration of SQL Server instances
  
  

• Database structures, filegroups, and data storage
  
  

• Authentication modes and user management
  
  

• Assigning server roles and database roles
  
  

• Granting, revoking, and auditing permissions
  
  

• Implementing encryption and data protection measures
  
  

• Backup strategies and recovery models
  
  

• Performing full, differential, and transaction log backups
  
  

• Restoring databases in various scenarios, including point-in-time recovery
  
  

• High availability solutions, including Always On Availability Groups
  
  

• Automating tasks with SQL Server Agent and creating job schedules
  
  

• Configuring alerts, notifications, and proactive monitoring
  
  

• Using PowerShell for administrative tasks, scripting, and automation
  
  

• Tracking and auditing SQL Server activity for compliance
  
  

• Monitoring SQL Server performance metrics and resource usage
  
  

• Troubleshooting common SQL Server issues and resolving errors
  
  

• Importing, exporting, and migrating data efficiently
  
  

• Optimizing database performance and tuning queries
  
  

• Maintaining database integrity and monitoring system health
  
  

Each topic is reinforced with practical exercises and real-world examples to ensure participants can apply their knowledge effectively in a professional setting. Emphasis is placed on hands-on labs, allowing learners to gain experience with the tools, techniques, and processes used by SQL Server administrators.

Teaching Methodology

The teaching methodology for this course is designed to combine theoretical understanding with practical application. Participants will engage in a variety of learning methods to ensure comprehensive skill development and retention.

The course begins with instructor-led lectures that provide detailed explanations of SQL Server concepts, architecture, and administrative procedures. These lectures are supported by visual demonstrations, diagrams, and step-by-step guides that clarify complex topics. Each lecture is structured to build foundational knowledge before advancing to more complex scenarios.

Hands-on labs are a core component of the teaching methodology. Participants will perform practical exercises in a controlled environment, applying what they have learned in real-world scenarios. Labs include configuring security settings, managing roles and permissions, performing backups and restores, automating tasks, and using PowerShell scripts for database management. These exercises ensure that learners gain practical skills that can be immediately applied in professional settings.

Case studies and real-world scenarios are incorporated to illustrate the application of theoretical knowledge. Participants will analyze common challenges faced by SQL Server administrators and develop strategies to address them. This approach encourages critical thinking and problem-solving, enabling learners to apply best practices and make informed decisions.

Interactive discussions and Q&A sessions are integrated into the course to encourage participant engagement. Learners can clarify doubts, share experiences, and collaborate with peers, enhancing their understanding of SQL Server administration concepts. This collaborative approach also helps participants develop communication and teamwork skills essential for professional environments.

Regular demonstrations and guided exercises are used to reinforce learning. Instructors walk participants through complex procedures, such as configuring high availability solutions, monitoring performance metrics, and implementing recovery strategies. Learners then practice these procedures independently, receiving feedback and guidance to refine their skills.

Progressive learning is emphasized throughout the course. Each module builds on the previous one, ensuring that participants develop a coherent understanding of SQL Server administration. By the end of the course, learners will have a complete skill set covering all essential areas of SQL Server 2016 administration, from security and backups to automation, monitoring, and troubleshooting.

Assessment & Evaluation

Assessment and evaluation are integral parts of the course, ensuring that participants can demonstrate their understanding and practical skills in SQL Server administration. Multiple evaluation methods are employed to provide a comprehensive measure of learning outcomes.

Practical lab exercises are assessed to gauge participants’ ability to apply concepts in real-world scenarios. Learners perform tasks such as configuring user permissions, setting up automated jobs, performing backups and restores, and using PowerShell for administrative tasks. Successful completion of these labs indicates proficiency in SQL Server administration.

Knowledge checks are conducted throughout the course to reinforce learning and evaluate comprehension of theoretical concepts. These assessments include scenario-based questions, problem-solving exercises, and short quizzes that focus on key topics such as security configuration, backup and recovery, and performance monitoring.

Assignments and projects are used to simulate real-world challenges and encourage participants to integrate multiple skills. Projects may involve designing a secure database infrastructure, implementing automated maintenance tasks, or optimizing server performance. These assessments test both technical skills and the ability to apply best practices in practical scenarios.

Performance evaluations include monitoring participation in discussions, engagement in labs, and the quality of solutions provided in exercises and projects. Instructors provide feedback to guide improvement, highlight strengths, and address areas requiring further development.

Final evaluation consists of a comprehensive assessment that combines practical and theoretical components. Participants demonstrate mastery of SQL Server 2016 administration by completing a series of tasks that cover all key aspects of the course. This final assessment ensures readiness for professional responsibilities and alignment with Microsoft 70-764 certification objectives.

Continuous assessment is also part of the learning process. Learners receive ongoing feedback during labs and exercises, allowing them to refine their skills progressively. This approach encourages active learning and ensures that participants achieve competency in all critical areas of SQL Server administration by the end of the course.

By integrating theoretical instruction, hands-on labs, real-world scenarios, and continuous assessment, this course provides a comprehensive learning experience. Participants gain both the knowledge and practical skills required to manage SQL Server 2016 databases effectively, secure data, automate administrative tasks, monitor performance, troubleshoot issues, and maintain a robust database infrastructure.

The combination of modules, key topics, teaching methodology, and assessment ensures that learners are well-prepared for professional responsibilities as SQL Server administrators and for the 70-764 certification exam. Participants complete the course with confidence in their ability to implement best practices, maintain secure and efficient database systems, and solve complex challenges in SQL Server administration.

Benefits of the Course

This SQL Server 2016 Administration course offers numerous benefits for IT professionals, database administrators, and developers seeking to enhance their skills in managing SQL Server environments. One of the primary benefits is the acquisition of practical, hands-on experience. Participants engage in extensive lab exercises and real-world scenarios, allowing them to implement security measures, configure backup strategies, automate tasks, and monitor server performance with confidence.

The course equips learners with the knowledge required to design and maintain secure, high-performing SQL Server databases. Participants gain the ability to manage user authentication and authorization effectively, assign roles, implement permissions, and audit activities. These skills ensure that organizations maintain compliance with data protection regulations while minimizing the risk of unauthorized access.

Another benefit is preparation for the Microsoft 70-764 certification exam. The course aligns with official exam objectives, providing participants with the knowledge and practical skills needed to achieve certification. This credential enhances professional credibility, improves career prospects, and demonstrates expertise in SQL Server database administration.

The course also emphasizes automation and efficiency. Participants learn to use SQL Server Agent, PowerShell scripting, and job scheduling to streamline routine administrative tasks. This reduces manual workload, increases productivity, and allows database administrators to focus on more strategic tasks, such as performance optimization and system monitoring.

Monitoring and troubleshooting skills are another key advantage. Learners gain the ability to track database performance, identify potential bottlenecks, and resolve issues quickly. By applying best practices in monitoring and performance tuning, participants help maintain a reliable and efficient database environment, ensuring that organizational operations run smoothly and without disruption.

The practical nature of the course ensures that participants can immediately apply what they learn in professional environments. The combination of theoretical knowledge and hands-on exercises prepares learners to handle real-world challenges in SQL Server administration, from securing databases to automating maintenance tasks and implementing backup and recovery strategies.

Participants also develop critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. Case studies and practical exercises encourage learners to analyze situations, develop solutions, and implement best practices effectively. These skills are essential for IT professionals responsible for maintaining high-performing and secure SQL Server infrastructures.

Overall, the course provides a comprehensive understanding of SQL Server 2016 administration, ensuring that participants are well-prepared to manage databases efficiently, maintain security and compliance, and optimize performance. By completing this course, learners enhance their technical expertise, improve career opportunities, and gain practical skills that are immediately applicable in professional settings.

Course Duration

The SQL Server 2016 Administration course is structured to provide an in-depth learning experience over a flexible duration that accommodates varying learning paces. The recommended course duration is approximately 40 to 50 hours of instructional content, including lectures, practical labs, and exercises. This duration ensures that participants have sufficient time to develop both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.

Instruction is delivered through a combination of live or recorded lectures, guided lab exercises, and independent practice. Participants are encouraged to engage with hands-on labs extensively, as these exercises reinforce the concepts covered in lectures and allow learners to gain practical experience in real-world scenarios.

The course is designed to be modular, allowing participants to progress at their own pace. Each module covers specific areas of SQL Server administration, such as security, backup and recovery, automation, monitoring, and troubleshooting. Participants can focus on one module at a time, ensuring a thorough understanding before advancing to more complex topics.

While the core course content can be completed within the recommended 40 to 50 hours, participants are encouraged to spend additional time practicing skills in their own environments. This extra practice reinforces learning, enhances confidence, and ensures that participants can perform administrative tasks efficiently in professional settings.

The flexible course duration also accommodates working professionals who may need to balance learning with job responsibilities. Learners can schedule study sessions and lab exercises according to their availability, making the course accessible and manageable for individuals at all levels of experience.

By the end of the course duration, participants will have gained comprehensive knowledge of SQL Server 2016 administration, developed practical skills in security, backup, automation, and monitoring, and acquired the confidence to manage SQL Server databases effectively in professional environments.

Tools & Resources Required

To maximize the learning experience and ensure successful completion of the course, participants require access to specific tools and resources. These tools provide the necessary environment for hands-on labs, practical exercises, and skill development.

The primary tool required is a working installation of SQL Server 2016. Participants should have access to SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS) for database management, query execution, and administrative tasks. SSMS serves as the primary interface for performing practical exercises, monitoring performance, and managing security configurations.

Participants will also need access to a Windows operating system environment, as SQL Server 2016 is optimized for Windows platforms. A machine running Windows 10 or later with sufficient memory and processing power is recommended to support SQL Server operations and lab exercises. Virtual machines can also be used to create isolated environments for testing and practice without affecting primary systems.

PowerShell is an essential tool for automating administrative tasks. Participants should have access to PowerShell scripting tools and be familiar with basic scripting concepts. The course includes guidance on using PowerShell to manage databases, automate repetitive tasks, monitor server performance, and perform security audits.

Additional resources include course materials, lab guides, and reference documentation. Participants will have access to instructional guides, step-by-step lab instructions, and sample scripts to facilitate hands-on learning. Online resources and forums can provide supplementary support and best practices for SQL Server administration.

Reliable internet access is recommended for participants attending live or recorded lectures, accessing online resources, and downloading required software or updates. Having a backup and recovery plan for lab environments is also advised to ensure uninterrupted practice and learning.

Participants are encouraged to maintain a notebook or digital record of exercises, observations, and solutions during lab sessions. This record serves as a valuable reference for future administrative tasks, troubleshooting, and exam preparation.

By utilizing these tools and resources, participants can gain practical experience, reinforce theoretical knowledge, and develop the confidence required to manage SQL Server 2016 databases efficiently. Proper access to tools ensures that learners can complete lab exercises, apply best practices, and achieve the full benefits of the course.

The combination of SQL Server 2016, SQL Server Management Studio, PowerShell, a Windows operating environment, and supplementary course materials creates a comprehensive learning ecosystem. This setup allows participants to practice administration tasks, implement security measures, perform backups and restores, automate jobs, monitor performance, and troubleshoot effectively.

The structured use of these tools and resources ensures that participants acquire practical skills that are immediately applicable in professional scenarios. By the end of the course, learners will have hands-on experience in SQL Server 2016 administration, be proficient in essential administrative tasks, and be prepared to apply best practices in their work environments.

Career Opportunities

Completing the SQL Server 2016 Administration course opens a wide range of career opportunities for IT professionals, database administrators, and developers. Participants gain practical skills and theoretical knowledge that make them highly valuable in organizations that rely on SQL Server for their data management and business intelligence needs.

Database administrators are in high demand across industries, including finance, healthcare, retail, technology, and government. By mastering SQL Server 2016 administration, participants can pursue roles such as SQL Server Database Administrator, Database Engineer, Database Analyst, and Database Developer. These positions involve responsibilities such as managing databases, ensuring data integrity, implementing security measures, monitoring performance, and automating administrative tasks.

In addition to traditional DBA roles, the course equips participants for advanced positions like Database Architect, Business Intelligence Specialist, and SQL Server Consultant. These roles require a deep understanding of database infrastructure, high availability solutions, disaster recovery planning, and performance optimization. Professionals in these roles design, implement, and maintain database systems that support critical business applications.

For IT professionals seeking career advancement, this course provides a clear pathway to certification and recognition. The 70-764 Microsoft SQL Server certification demonstrates expertise in administering SQL Server databases, enhancing credibility with employers and clients. Certification often leads to higher-paying roles, expanded responsibilities, and opportunities to work on complex database projects.

Organizations increasingly rely on secure, efficient, and high-performing databases to drive operations and decision-making. Professionals with expertise in SQL Server 2016 administration are equipped to support these requirements. They play a crucial role in data management, ensuring the availability, integrity, and security of critical business information.

The course also benefits software developers and application specialists who interact with SQL Server databases. By understanding administration and security principles, developers can design applications that integrate seamlessly with SQL Server, optimize query performance, and maintain compliance with organizational policies.

SQL Server 2016 administrators are in demand for roles that involve automation and cloud integration. Professionals with skills in PowerShell scripting, automated job scheduling, monitoring, and performance tuning are highly sought after. They ensure database environments are efficient, reliable, and capable of supporting evolving business needs.

By completing this course, participants position themselves as skilled professionals capable of handling real-world database challenges. They acquire the ability to manage SQL Server infrastructure effectively, secure sensitive data, optimize performance, and support business-critical operations. These skills translate into career growth, job security, and opportunities to work on innovative projects that leverage SQL Server technology.

Conclusion

The SQL Server 2016 Administration course provides a comprehensive learning experience that combines theoretical knowledge, hands-on practice, and practical skills. Participants gain a solid foundation in database administration, covering essential areas such as security, backup and recovery, automation, monitoring, troubleshooting, and performance optimization.

Throughout the course, learners engage in extensive lab exercises that simulate real-world scenarios, reinforcing concepts and developing practical skills. This hands-on approach ensures that participants are confident in performing administrative tasks, managing SQL Server environments, and implementing best practices.

The course also prepares participants for the Microsoft 70-764 certification exam, providing a structured pathway to validate expertise in SQL Server database administration. Achieving certification enhances professional credibility, opens career opportunities, and demonstrates proficiency in managing SQL Server infrastructure.

By completing this course, participants acquire the skills necessary to authenticate and authorize users, assign roles, configure permissions, secure data, automate administrative tasks, monitor performance, and troubleshoot database issues effectively. The knowledge gained empowers professionals to maintain high-performing, secure, and reliable SQL Server environments that support organizational operations.

The combination of theoretical instruction, practical labs, case studies, and real-world scenarios ensures that learners are well-prepared for professional responsibilities. Participants develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making skills that are essential for managing complex database systems in dynamic business environments.

This course also emphasizes automation, efficiency, and proactive management. By learning to use SQL Server Agent, PowerShell scripting, and monitoring tools, participants streamline routine tasks, reduce manual effort, and enhance the reliability of database operations. These skills increase productivity and allow administrators to focus on strategic initiatives and optimization projects.

Security and compliance are integral components of the course. Participants gain the ability to implement encryption, auditing, and permission policies, ensuring that sensitive data is protected and access is controlled. These skills are critical in environments where data security and regulatory compliance are top priorities.

Backup and recovery strategies are thoroughly covered, enabling learners to safeguard data and minimize downtime. By understanding recovery models, executing backups, and restoring databases in various scenarios, participants ensure business continuity and data integrity in mission-critical applications.

Monitoring and performance tuning are key focus areas, allowing participants to maintain optimal server performance. Learners gain the ability to identify potential bottlenecks, optimize queries, and monitor system metrics, ensuring that SQL Server environments operate efficiently and reliably.

The course also prepares professionals for evolving technology landscapes. With a foundation in SQL Server 2016 administration, participants are well-positioned to adapt to future versions of SQL Server, cloud-based database solutions, and emerging data management technologies. The skills acquired are transferable and applicable to a wide range of database administration roles.

Overall, the SQL Server 2016 Administration course equips learners with a comprehensive skill set that combines theory, practical application, and certification preparation. Participants emerge as competent database administrators capable of managing secure, efficient, and high-performing SQL Server environments, supporting organizational objectives, and driving data-driven decision-making.

Enroll Today

Enrolling in the SQL Server 2016 Administration course is a step toward advancing your career, enhancing your technical expertise, and gaining practical skills that are immediately applicable in professional environments. By participating in this course, learners join a structured program that provides comprehensive knowledge, hands-on experience, and preparation for the Microsoft 70-764 certification exam.

The course offers flexible learning options, including instructor-led sessions, guided lab exercises, and self-paced study, allowing participants to tailor their learning experience to their individual needs and schedules. The practical focus ensures that learners can apply concepts directly to real-world database administration tasks, reinforcing theoretical knowledge with hands-on practice.

By enrolling today, participants gain access to a complete learning ecosystem, including SQL Server 2016, SQL Server Management Studio, PowerShell scripting tools, lab guides, and supplementary resources. This setup enables learners to develop confidence in managing SQL Server databases, automating administrative tasks, monitoring performance, and implementing security measures effectively.

The course prepares participants for a wide range of career opportunities in database administration, IT infrastructure management, and application development. Professionals who complete the program are equipped to handle SQL Server environments efficiently, ensure data security, optimize performance, and support business-critical operations.

Enroll today to take the first step toward becoming a skilled SQL Server 2016 administrator. Gain the knowledge, practical skills, and certification readiness needed to advance your career, increase professional credibility, and make a significant impact in database management and administration roles.

This course is ideal for individuals seeking to build expertise in SQL Server administration, enhance their professional qualifications, and develop practical skills that are in high demand across industries. By completing the program, learners will be well-prepared to manage SQL Server databases confidently, implement best practices, and contribute to the success of their organizations.