May 2009 - Posts

Synchronizing Life - What a mesh!
18 May 2009 22:29

I was recently introduced to a beta service from Microsoft called Live Mesh and I absolutely love it

My working life usually consists of a combination of 1-2 days out with customers, 1-2 days at the office and the balance working from home - I find myself switching between my laptop, desktop and customer PCs several times per week and often multiple times each day.

I'm often missing files that aren't where I need them - despite a handful of USB sticks around my desk and several in my bag for transferring files - but NO MORE (well, less at least...)!

The service slogan reads "Synchronising Life" and Live Mesh provides automatic, transparent folder synch'ing between computers - I know there are other services around but Live Mesh is great - it just works!  I've found this to be great for mitigating loss of my laptop while travelling or hard disk damage - since my work-in-progress is automatically protected.

Like the concept? 

Sign-up with a Windows Live account at http://www.mesh.com; add your first device (supports Windows and Mac).  Nominate a folder for synchronisation and it will be uploaded.  Add a new device and the mesh folder will synchronise to the second computer - voila!  Need the data and don't have access to your PC? Just sign-in to Mesh anywhere else and view your folders!

What about security?

Usual common sense applies: don't use this service to store any sensitive information such as bank account details; passwords; mothers' maiden names; VPN details; information that doesn't belong to you or ANY sensitive data.

What's the catch?

There's a 5GB limit per user, that's it - and it's a beta (usual rules apply).  Vista users must have UAC enabled (with Vista SP1 - Mesh works without UAC).

I've found Mesh to be easy to setup, reliable and pretty handy - give it a try!

Happy mesh'ing!

 

 

Justin Langford

Coeo - SQL Server Consultants | SQL Server Remote DBA

by JustinL | 1 comment(s)
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Hungry? How about a McDBA?
06 May 2009 17:36

Recently I saw a job posting from a recruitment agent mentioning a McDBA was required; it made me smile -  I wonder if you can train at the Hamburger University?

I've contributed one chapter to each of two new Syngress study guides for SQL Server 2008 MCTS exams and if you're considering attempting Implementation and Maintenance or Database Design - you could look at the Syngress study guides at Amazon:

70-432 Database Implementation and Maintenance

70-433 Database Design

I know Microsoft certification isn't everyones cup of tea, but I think it can be a great way to broaden your knowledge, gen-up on a new release or dip your toe if you're new to SQL Server.

Happy studying and good luck if you take the plunge with the exams!

 

Justin Langford

Coeo - SQL Server Consultants | SQL Server Remote DBA