Database Management

Self-Led Project Plan for SQL Sentry

This article provides a step-by-step guide for self-led onboarding of SolarWinds SQL Sentry. Deploy and configure SQL Sentry to monitor SQL Server performance, configure alerts and actions, manage user access, and optimize database environments for scalability, availability, and diagnostics.

First published date

8/15/2025 9:30 PM

Last published date

8/20/2025 5:00 PM

Overview

Installation & Setup

Install SQL Sentry

Use the Setup Wizard or Enhanced Platform Installer to install SQL Sentry.
SQL Sentry Installation Guide

Configure SQL Sentry Portal

Set up browser-based access to SQL Sentry data.
SQL Sentry Portal Configuration

Review System Requirements

Ensure your environment meets prerequisites.
System Requirements

Monitoring Configuration

Configure Monitoring Services

Set up monitoring services to collect performance and event data.
Monitoring Service Settings

Site Configuration

Organize targets and services into logical sites.
Site Configuration

High Availability & Scalability

Database Maintenance

Perform regular maintenance for optimal performance.
Database Maintenance Guide

Scalability Pack

Enable advanced compression.
Apply SQL Server Data Compression

User Accounts & Permissions

Configure Security Settings

Set up rights-based access and authentication.
Security Overview

Assign Roles & Permissions

Manage user and group access to features.
Rights-Based Security

Alerts & Reporting

Configure Alerts & Actions

Set up conditions and responses for monitored events.
Alerts Overview

Generate Reports

Use built-in reporting tools to analyze performance.
Reports Menu

Troubleshooting

Use Diagnostic Logs

Access logs for client, portal, and monitoring services.
Troubleshooting Guide

Resolve Common Issues

Fix client crashes, sync failures, and AlwaysOn tab issues.
Advanced Troubleshooting

Best Practices & Enhancements

Optimize Monitoring Scope

Adjust synchronization limits and performance counters.
Settings Pane

Enable Performance Features

Use TempDB stats and custom counters wisely.
SQL Server Settings

Notes

This plan is designed for customers who prefer a self-paced onboarding experience.
- Self-Led Project Plans
For assisted onboarding, refer to SolarWinds Deployment Services.
- Deployment Scope
For troubleshooting, contact SolarWinds Support.
- Submit a Ticket

Product section

SQL Sentry (SQLS)

Disclaimer: Please note, any content posted herein is provided as a suggestion or recommendation to you for your internal use. This is not part of the SolarWinds software or documentation that you purchased from SolarWinds, and the information set forth herein may come from third parties. Your organization should internally review and assess to what extent, if any, such custom scripts or recommendations will be incorporated into your environment. You elect to use third-party content at your own risk, and you will be solely responsible for the incorporation of the same if any.