Enable Instant File Initialization is easy in SQL Server 2016

Posted byRamasankarPosted inDatabase Administration

Starting from SQL Server 2005, Microsoft introduced a feature called Instant File Initialization. By default, when you create a database, add a new data file, increase the size of an existing file,  in SQL Server first initialized by filling the files with zeros.

File initialization causes these operations to take longer. However, when data is written to the files for the first time, the operating system does not have to fill the files with zeros. To accomplish this we need to enable “Instant File Initialization” in SQL Server.  Prior to SQL Server 2016, to enable this feature you had to edit the Local Security Policy to give the account that runs the SQL Server service the “Perform volume maintenance tasks” right as shown in Figure 1

  1. Run secpol.msc on the server.
  2. Expand the Local Policies Folder
  3. Click on User Rights Assignment
  4. Go down to the “Perform Volume Maintenance Tasks” option and double click it
  5. Add your SQL Server Service account, and click OK out of the dialog.

Secpol

Figure 1

Microsoft made this feature easy in SQL Server 2016, When you install SQL Server you have a choice to enable this feature under server configuration as show in Figure 2. You do not have to configure after installation, once you enable it will automatically grant required permission to the service account the SQL Server installed.

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Figure 2

Hope you enjoyed the post!

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Ramasankar Molleti

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Published by Ramasankar

As a Principal Cloud Architect with over 18 years of experience, I am dedicated to revolutionizing IT landscapes through cutting-edge cloud solutions. My expertise spans Cloud Architecture, Security Architecture, Solution Design, Cloud Migration, Database Transformation, Development, and Big Data Analytics.Currently, I spearhead cloud initiatives with a focus on Infrastructure, Containerization, Security, Big Data, Machine Learning, and Artificial Intelligence. I collaborate closely with development teams to architect, build, and manage robust cloud ecosystems that drive business growth and technological advancement.Core Competencies: • Cloud Platforms: AWS, Google Cloud Platform, Microsoft Azure • Technologies: Kubernetes, Serverless Computing, Microservices • Databases: MS SQL Server, PostgreSQL, Oracle, MongoDB, Amazon Redshift, DynamoDB, Aurora • Industries: Finance, Retail, Manufacturing. Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of working with industry leaders such as OCC, Gate Gourmet, Walgreens, and Johnson Controls, gaining invaluable insights across diverse sectors.As a lifelong learner and knowledge sharer, I take pride in being the first in my organization to complete all major AWS certifications. I am passionate about mentoring and guiding fellow professionals in their cloud journey, fostering a culture of continuous learning and innovation.Let’s connect and explore how we can leverage cloud technologies to transform your business: • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ramasankar-molleti-23b13218/ • Book a mentorship session: [1:1] Together, let’s architect the future of cloud computing and drive technological excellence. Disclaimer The views expressed on this website/blog are mine alone and do not reflect the views of my company. All postings on this blog are provided “AS IS” with no warranties, and confers no rights. The owner of https://ramasankarmolleti.com will not be liable for any errors or omissions in this information nor for the availability of this information. The owner will not be liable for any losses, injuries, or damages from the display or use of this information.

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