I'm new to a job that involves managing a huge number of MS SQL servers—around 100 of them! Currently, we have one person dedicated to updating each server individually, which feels overwhelming. Since these servers are owned by different business units with varying security needs and access protocols, consoling them isn't really feasible. I'm looking for any tips or strategies that could help manage these servers more efficiently. Is there a better way to handle updates and maintenance for so many different servers?
5 Answers
First off, it's crucial to define what you mean by "manage." Are you talking about regular updates, monitoring, or backups? Clear definitions can help focus your approach.
This might sound unconventional, but Ansible has worked wonders for others in similar situations. It allows you to manage multiple servers efficiently and could save you a ton of time.
If you genuinely believe consolidation isn't possible for your scenario, I recommend consulting a paid expert who specializes in SQL Server management. They can provide insights that are tailored to your situation.
For patching, automation is key! If you're looking at updates more broadly, the specifics matter. If you’re dealing with SQL Server version upgrades, that’s trickier, but still doable with the right tools.
Consider using PowerShell scripts and tools like Dbamtools.io. They can automate many tasks across multiple servers simultaneously, making your job a lot easier.

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