SQL Server startup parameters

Category: Reliability
Item: SQL Engine startup settings

What are SQL Server startup parameters?

When you install SQL Server, setup writes a set of default startup options in the Microsoft Windows registry that influences how it is started.

You can use these startup parameters to specify an alternate path to specific file locations needed during startup and specify some server-wide conditions.

Also, you can set startup parameters that use trace flags that affect the SQL Server behavior.

How can I check it?

You will found these startup options using the SQL Server Configuration Manager:

In the right pane, right-click SQL Server (<instance_name>), and then click Properties.

Figure 1 – SQL Engine startup settings.

The Startup Parameters tab has three parameters by default.

  1. Location of master database data file (-d)
  2. Location of master database log file path (-l)
  3. SQL server error logs path (-e)

How can I add trace Flags at parameters?

To enable a trace flag and ensure the trace flag stays enabled through restarts, use a -T and the trace flag number (no spaces) as the sample below.

Figure 2 – Adding trace flag to SQL Server startup parameters.

Note: Improper use of startup options can affect server performance and can prevent SQL Server from starting.

More information

Microsoft – Database Engine Service Startup Options

Mark Varnas

Mark Varnas

I love making performance tuning SQL Servers fast and making them more stable. And I channel that obsession into our SQL Managed Services and new content here. When I'm not writing about SQL, I spend time outside hiking, skiing, mountain biking, or trying a new recipe.

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