SQL Server Interview Question #275
What is the system_health Extended Events session?
SQL Server Internals & Administration Senior Advanced
Quick Interview Answer
system_health is a built-in Extended Events session that SQL Server starts automatically. It captures useful diagnostic information about important engine conditions.
It can contain information about deadlocks and other significant events, making it a valuable first place to investigate certain production incidents.
Its retention is limited, so organizations requiring longer history should create purpose-built monitoring and event-retention processes.
Detailed Explanation
system_health is a built-in Extended Events session that SQL Server starts automatically. It captures useful diagnostic information about important engine conditions.
It can contain information about deadlocks and other significant events, making it a valuable first place to investigate certain production incidents.
Its retention is limited, so organizations requiring longer history should create purpose-built monitoring and event-retention processes.