SQL Server is the dominant relational database in the Windows market and data security is a huge and growing concern for all businesses. Securing SQL Server is one of the most important responsibilities of the SQL Server professional.

This is a very carefully researched, clearly explained book on this subject by someone who knows SQL Server inside and out. If you follow the practical guidelines set that are clearly set out in this book then you stand a very good chance of making sure that the data stored in the database is secure and that the conversation between your applications and the database is secure (preventing SQL injection attacks and so on). For example, any DBA who implemented the security precautions detailed in the book would not have been affected by the infamous Slammer virus (http: //members.microsoft.com/partner/support/slammer.aspx). The second edition will just have more practical advice on how to implement good practices that will ward off future viruses before they are even created.

Special Note: This update will contain new content that reflects all updates to SQL Server's security mechanisms resulting from Microsoft's Palladium Security initiative. It will also be written for the latest Service Pack (SP3).