Troubleshooting SQL Server Agent

This section provides guidance on identifying and resolving common issues encountered with SQL Server Agent. We'll cover error messages, performance problems, and configuration challenges.

Common Issues and Solutions

  • Job Failures:
    • Error: "Access is denied."
    • Cause: Insufficient permissions for the SQL Server Agent service account or the proxy account used by the job step.
    • Solution: Verify that the SQL Server Agent service account has the necessary permissions to access resources. For proxy accounts, ensure they are correctly configured with appropriate permissions. Check the SQL Server Agent error logs and the Windows Application event log for more details.
  • Job Not Running:
    • Cause: SQL Server Agent service is stopped, the job is disabled, or there are scheduling conflicts.
    • Solution: Ensure the SQL Server Agent service is running. Check the job's status in SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS) and verify its schedule.
  • Performance Degradation:
    • Cause: Resource contention, inefficient job steps, or excessive logging.
    • Solution: Monitor server resources. Optimize job step scripts for better performance. Review and adjust logging levels if necessary.
  • Alerts Not Firing:
    • Cause: Incorrect alert configuration, SQL Server Agent service not running, or the event that triggers the alert is not occurring.
    • Solution: Double-check the alert conditions and thresholds. Ensure the SQL Server Agent service is running. Test the condition that should trigger the alert manually.
Tip: Always start by examining the SQL Server Agent error logs and the Windows Event Viewer (Application logs) for specific error messages. These are your primary tools for diagnosing problems.

Diagnostic Tools and Techniques

  • SQL Server Agent Error Logs: Accessible via SSMS, these logs provide detailed information about job execution, errors, and agent activity.
  • Windows Event Viewer: The Application log often contains critical information related to the SQL Server Agent service and its interactions with the operating system.
  • SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS): Use SSMS to check job statuses, schedules, history, alerts, and operator configurations.
  • Performance Monitor (PerfMon): Monitor SQL Server Agent specific performance counters to identify bottlenecks.
  • `sp_help_job` and `sp_help_alert` stored procedures: Useful for programmatically querying job and alert information.

Advanced Troubleshooting

For more complex issues, consider the following:

  • Analyzing deadlock situations involving SQL Server Agent.
  • Troubleshooting issues with multi-server administration and distributed jobs.
  • Investigating problems with custom error handling or notification methods.

Refer to the SQL Server Agent Logs for detailed information on interpreting log entries.