ApexSQL Discover

As the name suggests, ApexSQL Discover is a tool designed to help you identify the SQL server instances across the network or in a domain automatically.

The setup is a quick operation that does not require any attention from your part and does not need a separate database or any kind of repository. In fact, the application can be used even on machines that do not feature a SQL server and can find instances those running as SSRS, SSAS and SSIS services. The process can be configured to be automatic, an option that can save your team time and effort.

You will be happy to learn that the program allows you to perform domain queries, case in which you need to provide the name and your credentials. In the eventuality that you do not want to scan the entire domain, then you can consider performing a search using IP address or port range.

The idea behind the program is to help you monitor various parameters of the SQL servers, namely CPU, RAM and disk usage in real time. While the app does not offer performance reports – as it does not store the data – you are able to determine and consequentially, take the appropriate course of action, in case the usage of any of the host becomes abnormal.

Take note that the tool is designed to work specifically with Microsoft SQL and hence, it does not identify MySQL or other types of databases. As far as the compatibility goes, the app can detect all versions of SQL Server from 2005 to 2017, regardless of whether they are Standard, Enterprise or Express editions. However, Amazon RDS and Azure SQL are not supported.

ApexSQL Discover is an intuitive and lightweight program that can come in handy for anyone who needs to monitor and offer assistance remotely in SQL Servers.