What is use of cursor in SQL Server?
The cursor in SQL can be used when the data needs to be updated row by row. A SQL cursor is a database object that is used to retrieve data from a result set one row at a time. A SQL cursor is used when the data needs to be updated row by row.
What is alternative to cursor SQL Server?
Temporary tables have been in use for a long time and provide an excellent way to replace cursors for large data sets. Just like table variables, temporary tables can hold the result set so that we can perform the necessary operations by processing it with an iterating algorithm such as a ‘while’ loop.
Why is the performance of the cursor so important?
Performance is usually boosted because of a reduction in network traffic between the client and the server. For optimum performance, you may have to try both types of cursors under realistic loads to determine which is best for your particular environment. [2000, 2005, 2008] Updated 1-29-2009
Why are cursors so slow in SQL Server?
It is for this reason that we so often find SQL Server cursors written into the business logic of an application and it is a real pity because they are real performance hogs.
Which is the best cursor to use in SQL Server?
When working with unidirectional, read-only data, use the FAST_FORWARD option instead of the FORWARD_ONLY option, as it has some internal performance optimizations to speed performance. This type of cursor produces the least amount of overhead on SQL Server.
What’s the best way to use a server side cursor?
If you have no choice but to use a server-side cursor in your application, try to use a FORWARD-ONLY or FAST-FORWARD, READ-ONLY cursor. When working with unidirectional, read-only data, use the FAST_FORWARD option instead of the FORWARD_ONLY option, as it has some internal performance optimizations to speed performance.