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SQL Server Reporting Services (SSRS) Documentation

What is SQL Server Reporting Services?

SQL Server Reporting Services (SSRS) is a server-based report generation software application from Microsoft. It is part of the Microsoft SQL Server suite of services. SSRS is used to prepare, manage, and deliver both print and interactive reports. It also provides tools for report authoring, management, and delivery.

Key features include:

  • Web-based report portal
  • Report designer (SQL Server Data Tools)
  • Support for various data sources
  • Scheduling and subscriptions
  • Role-based security
  • Mobile and interactive reporting
Note: With the release of SQL Server 2022, Reporting Services is now a separate download and installation from the main SQL Server database engine.

Getting Started with SSRS

This section provides the foundational steps to begin working with SQL Server Reporting Services.

Installation and Setup

Follow these steps to install and configure SSRS on your server:

  1. Download the latest version of SQL Server Reporting Services.
  2. Run the installer and follow the on-screen prompts.
  3. Configure the report server and web service URLs.
  4. Set up the report server database.

Refer to the official installation guide for detailed instructions.

Creating Your First Report

Learn the basics of report creation using SQL Server Data Tools (SSDT):

  • Connect to your data source.
  • Design your report layout using the Report Designer.
  • Add tables, charts, and other report items.
  • Preview and publish your report.

Reporting Services Architecture

Understanding the components of SSRS is crucial for effective deployment and management.

  • Report Server: The core component that processes reports and manages report definitions, snapshots, and resources.
  • Report Designer: A tool within SQL Server Data Tools (SSDT) for creating and editing paginated reports.
  • Report Viewer: Embeddable controls for displaying reports in web applications and SharePoint.
  • Report Manager: A web application for managing reports, datasources, and security settings.
  • Report Server Database: Stores report definitions, security settings, and other metadata.
  • Report Delivery Extensions: Components that enable report delivery through various channels like email, file shares, or SharePoint.

The following diagram illustrates the high-level architecture:

SSRS Architecture Diagram

Tutorials and How-To Guides

Explore practical examples and step-by-step guides to master SSRS.

Developer Reference

Access comprehensive API documentation and development resources.

Working with RDL:

Report Definition Language (RDL) is an XML-based language that defines the structure, content, and properties of a report. You can create or modify RDL files directly using an XML editor.

<Report xmlns="http://schemas.microsoft.com/sqlserver/reporting/2008/01/reportdefinition" xmlns:rd="http://schemas.microsoft.com/SQLServer/reporting/reportdesigner">
    <DataSources>
        <DataSource Name="SampleDataSource">
            <ConnectionProperties>
                <DataSourceReference>MyDataSource</DataSourceReference>
                <IntegratedSecurity>true</IntegratedSecurity>
            </ConnectionProperties>
        </DataSource>
    </DataSources>
    <ReportSections>
        <ReportSection>
            <Body>
                <ReportItems>
                    <Textbox Name="Textbox1">
                        <CanGrow>true</CanGrow>
                        <KeepTogether>true</KeepTogether>
                        <Paragraphs>
                            <Paragraph>
                                <TextRuns>
                                    <TextRun>
                                        <Value>Hello, SSRS!</Value>
                                        <Style />
                                    </TextRun>
                                </TextRuns>
                                <Style />
                            </Paragraph>
                        </Paragraphs>
                        <Style>
                            <PaddingLeft>2pt</PaddingLeft>
                            <PaddingRight>2pt</PaddingRight>
                            <PaddingTop>2pt</PaddingTop>
                            <PaddingBottom>2pt</PaddingBottom>
                        </Style>
                    </Textbox>
                </ReportItems>
            </Body>
            <Width>6.5in</Width>
        </ReportSection>
    </ReportSections>
    <rd:ReportUnitType>Inch</rd:ReportUnitType>
</Report>

Administering Reporting Services

Manage your report server environment effectively.

Important: Regularly back up your report server database and configuration files to prevent data loss.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Find solutions to frequently encountered problems.