Quick Scan Report – UPDLOCK Hint - Database Health Monitor

Why UPDLOCK Can Be a Problem

The UPDLOCK hint in SQL Server holds update locks until the end of a transaction, preventing other transactions from obtaining exclusive locks on the same rows. While useful in certain cases, excessive use can lead to:

Blocking issues – Other transactions are blocked until the lock is released.
Increased server wait times – Long-running transactions holding update locks can slow down the database.

Best Practices for Using UPDLOCK

Keep transactions short – Reduce blocking by limiting the duration of locks.
Use only when necessary – Apply UPDLOCK only when preventing updates between a SELECT and an UPDATE within the same transaction.
Monitor locking issues – Use tools like Database Health Monitor to track and resolve blocking problems.

Need Help with Performance Tuning?

Frequent UPDLOCK issues could indicate poor transaction design or inefficient queries. Stedman Solutions’ SQL Server experts can help optimize your database to prevent performance bottlenecks.

Quick Scan Report – UPDLOCK Hint

Why UPDLOCK Can Be a Problem

Best Practices for Using UPDLOCK

Need Help with Performance Tuning?

Getting Help from Steve and the Stedman Solutions Team