Restricting the memory allocated to database servers

The database server (SQL Server) is configured to use as much memory as it is available on the system. If you are experiencing issues with insufficient memory, you can fix the problem by setting a maximum limit to the amount of memory SQL Server is allowed to use.

To restrict the memory used by SQL Server:

1. On the server hosting the database, open Microsoft SQL Server Management Studio.
2. In the Microsoft SQL Server Management Studio window, right-click the database server name () in the Object Explorer, and select Properties.
3. In the Server Properties window, select the Memory page.
4. In the field Maximum server memory (in MB), enter the maximum memory SQL Server is allowed to use.

   Microsoft recommends the following guidelines:

   • RAM = 2 GB, Maximum server memory = 1000 MB
   • RAM = 4 GB, Maximum server memory = 2200 MB
   • RAM = 6 GB, Maximum server memory = 3800 MB
   • RAM = 8 GB, Maximum server memory = 5400 MB
   • RAM = 12 GB, Maximum server memory = 8000 MB
   • RAM = 16 GB, Maximum server memory = 13500 MB
   • RAM = 24 GB, Maximum server memory = 21500 MB
5. Click OK, and close Microsoft SQL Server Management Studio.