Understanding Transaction Replication in SQL Server 2025 –A Complete Guide

When working with databases, one of the most common requirements is to share data between multiple servers in real-time. In SQL Server 2025, Transaction Replication remains one of the most reliable methods to achieve this.

In this blog, I’ll explain what Transaction Replication is, how it works, its key components, and why you should use it.

What Is Transaction Replication in SQL Server 2025?

Transaction Replication is a method of copying data changes (transactions) from one database (the Publisher) to another (the Subscriber) almost in real-time.

• Every time an insert, update, or delete happens in the Publisher database, those changes are immediately delivered to the Subscriber database.

• This makes it perfect for reporting environments, distributed applications, or when multiple systems need the same data at the same time.

New in SQL Server 2025 – Cross-Platform Replication

In earlier versions, replication was mainly restricted to Windows-to-Windows environments. With SQL Server 2025, Microsoft has extended support for:

• Windows → Linux replication

• Linux → Windows replication

• Linux → Linux replication

This means if your company runs mixed environments (for example, Windows servers for OLTP workloads and Linux servers for reporting), you can now use Transaction Replication to synchronize data across them in real-time.

💡 Use Case Example:
A company runs its production SQL Server 2025 instance on Windows, but for cost efficiency, they use Linux servers for reporting. With Transaction Replication, changes made on the Windows Publisher are replicated instantly to the Linux Subscriber.

Key Components of Transaction Replication

1. Publisher 📰

   • The source database where transactions happen.

2. Distributor 📦

   • Manages replication flow and metadata.

3. Subscriber 📥

   • The database receiving replicated data (can now be Linux or Windows).

4. Log Reader Agent 🔎

   • Reads changes from the Publisher’s transaction log.

5. Distribution Agent 🚚

• Delivers transactions from Distributor to Subscriber.

How Transaction Replication Works in SQL Server 2025

1. Transaction Happens at Publisher
   Example: INSERT INTO Sales (ProductID, Amount) VALUES (101, 500)

2. Log Reader Agent Reads the Transaction
   Reads changes from the Publisher’s log.

3. Distributor Stores the Transaction
   Temporarily holds data for delivery.

4. Distribution Agent Applies Changes to Subscriber
   Updates the Subscriber database — even if it’s running on a different OS.

When to Use Transaction Replication

✅ For real-time reporting on a different platform (Windows → Linux).
✅ For hybrid environments where development runs on Linux but production on Windows.
✅ For low latency synchronization across distributed systems.
✅ When you want a read-only copy of your database for analytic

Advantages of Transaction Replication in SQL Server 2025

• ⚡ Near real-time updates

• 🔒 No locking on Publisher tables

• 🌍 Cross-platform replication between Windows and Linux

• 🎯 Granular control (specific tables/columns)

FAQs – Transaction Replication in SQL Server 2025

Q: What is Transaction Replication in SQL Server 2025?
A: Transaction Replication is a feature that copies data changes (inserts, updates, deletes) from one SQL Server database (Publisher) to another (Subscriber) in near real-time.

Q: Can SQL Server 2025 replicate data between Linux and Windows?
A: Yes. SQL Server 2025 now supports cross-platform replication. You can replicate data from a Windows server to a Linux server, from Linux to Windows, or even Linux to Linux.

Q: Why would I use Transaction Replication instead of backup/restore?
A: Backup/restore is a one-time operation. Transaction Replication continuously sends changes in real-time, keeping your Subscriber database up to date without manual effort.

Q: What are the main benefits of Transaction Replication in SQL Server 2025?
A:

• Real-time data updates

• Cross-platform support (Linux ↔ Windows)

• Minimal impact on the Publisher

• Multiple Subscribers supported

• Granular control over which tables or columns are replicated

Q: Is Transaction Replication good for bi-directional synchronization?
A: No. Transaction Replication is one-way (Publisher → Subscriber). If you need two-way synchronization, you should use Merge Replication or Peer-to-Peer Replication.

How to Change SSMS 21 to Dark Theme – Simple Guide for Beginners

 When working in SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS) 21, many people prefer using the dark theme. It’s easier on the eyes, reduces strain during long hours of coding, and just looks modern.

But here’s the thing: a lot of beginners struggle to find where the theme setting is. Don’t worry — it’s actually very simple!

Step-by-Step: Enable Dark Theme in SSMS 21

Step 1 – Open SSMS 21

Start by launching SQL Server Management Studio 21.

Step 2 – Go to Tools

At the top menu bar, click on Tools.

At the top menu bar, click on Tools.

Step 3 – Open Options

From the Tools menu, select Options.

From the Tools menu, select Options.

Step 4 – Find the Color Theme Setting

• In the Options window, expand the Environment section.

• Click on General.

• On the right-hand side, look for Color theme.

Option Window

Step 5 – Switch to Dark Theme

• From the dropdown menu, select Dark.

• Click OK to apply changes.

Now your SSMS 21 will instantly switch to dark mode.

Select Dark Theme

This is how it's look when you change 

Why Use Dark Theme in SSMS 21?

•  Reduces eye strain during long coding sessions

• Saves laptop/monitor battery life on some devices

•  Looks modern and professional

• Easier to read queries at night or in low light

Final Thoughts

Changing the SSMS 21 color theme to dark mode takes less than a minute, but it can make your SQL coding experience much more comfortable.

If you want to see this process in action, I’ve created a video tutorial on my YouTube channel — check it out for a quick visual guide!

 

My Experience Integrating SSMS 21 with Copilot – Step-by-Step Guide to Boost SQL Server Productivity in 2025

 Recently, Microsoft announced the release of SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS) 21  and this version introduces something exciting for database professionals: Copilot integration.

Copilot is an AI-powered assistant built into SSMS 21 that can help write SQL queries faster, suggest optimizations, and assist with repetitive coding tasks. As a database administrator and SQL Server enthusiast, I was eager to try it out. In this blog, I’ll share my step-by-step process for integrating Copilot with SSMS 21 and how I use it to speed up my daily work.

Why SSMS 21 + Copilot Is a Game-Changer

Before SSMS 21, AI-powered code assistance wasn’t a built-in feature for SQL developers. Now, with Copilot, we can:

• Get instant SQL query suggestions.

• Receive performance improvement tips.

• Generate T-SQL scripts quickly and accurately.

• Avoid common syntax mistakes with real-time validation.

Step-by-Step: How to Integrate Copilot with SSMS 21

Step 1 – Install or Update to SSMS 21 (Here you can watch my YouTube video)

Step 2 - login to Azure portal 

     Step 3. Click on the Create resource

Step 4.  Click on Azure OpenAI Services

Step 5. Once you click on that service, you need to follow these steps:

1. Create a new resource group or add the service to an existing resource group you are already using.

2. Enter a proper name for your service.

3. Select a pricing tier.

4. Click the Next button.

Step 6. In the Network section:

1. Select All networks, including the Internet, to allow access to the resource.

2. Click Next.

Step 7. Click Next.

Step 8. Click Create.

Step 9. Once you are done with the creation, in your Azure services, you will see an icon like this(Azure OpenAI Service). Click on it.

Step 10. In Azure OpenAI Service:

1. Click on Resource Management.

2. Click on Keys and Endpoint.

Step 11. These are the keys you will need for the Copilot integration.

Step 12.Click on Overview as highlighted in the picture, then click on 

1.  Explore Azure AI Foundry Portal.

Step 13.Once you go to the Azure AI Foundry Portal: 

1. Click on Deployments.
2. Click on Deployed Model.

Step 14. Then you click on Deploy Base Model.

Step 15. Here, select only the gpt-4o model, as it is the only version currently working with SSMS 21.

Step 16. Then Click on Confirm 

Step 17. Then Click  on Deploy 

Step 18. Once you’ve completed the deployment, launch your SSMS 21 and click on Copilot, as shown in the image.

Step 19. Fill in the text boxes using the parameters from the previous deployment:

1. Azure OpenAI Endpoint – You can find this in Step 11.

2. Deployment Name – This is from Step 17(Deployment Name).

3. Key – You can also find this in Step 11.

Step 20. Once you fill in the boxes with the relevant details, click on the Launch Copilot button.

21. Booom! You’re done, congratulations! You have successfully launched Copilot with SSMS 21.

How to Import Data from SQL Server 2012 to SQL Server 2025 Using SSMS

Upgrading to SQL Server 2025 and need to bring in your old data from SQL Server 2012? The easiest way to do this is by using the built-in Import Data option in SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS).

I’ve created a full video tutorial showing every step so please watch my YouTube video if you want to follow along visually. In this article, I’ll walk you through the exact process I used.

Step 1 – Create a New Database in SQL Server 2025

1. Open SQL Server Management Studio 2025.

2. Right-click on Databases → New Database.

3. Give your database a name and click OK.

Step 2 – Open the Import Data Wizard

1. Right-click on your newly created database.

2. Select Tasks → Import Data.

3. The SQL Server Import and Export Wizard will appear.

Step 3 – Choose the Data Source

1. Under Data Source, select Microsoft OLE DB Provider for SQL Server.

What is Microsoft OLE DB Provider for SQL Server?

The Microsoft OLE DB Provider for SQL Server is a high-performance data access component that lets applications connect directly to SQL Server databases.

• It acts as a bridge between SSMS and your database.

• It’s optimized for fast and secure SQL Server connections.

• It works across different SQL Server versions, making it perfect for migrations.

We use it here because it ensures a smooth transfer from SQL Server 2012 to SQL Server 2025.

Step 4 – Connect to the Source Database (SQL Server 2012)

1. Enter your SQL Server 2012 server name.

2. Provide your SQL Server login credentials.

3. Choose the database you want to import from.

4. Click Next.

Step 5 – Set the Destination (SQL Server 2025)

1. For Destination, again select Microsoft OLE DB Provider for SQL Server.

2. Enter your SQL Server 2025 server name and credentials.

3. Choose your destination database:

   • Select an existing database, or

   • Create a new database directly here.

Step 6 – Select Tables and Run the Import

1. Choose the tables or views you want to import.

2. Review the column mappings.

3. Click Finish to start the import process.

Final Thoughts

With the Import Data option in SSMS, migrating data between SQL Server versions is quick and straightforward.

If you prefer a step-by-step visual guide, please watch my YouTube video, it will make the process even clearer.

FAQs – Import Data from SQL Server 2012 to SQL Server 2025

Q: Can I import data into an existing database in SQL Server 2025?
A: Yes, you can choose an existing database or create a new one during the import process.

Q: What’s the benefit of using Microsoft OLE DB Provider for SQL Server?
A: It’s optimized for SQL Server, offers faster performance, and ensures compatibility between different SQL Server versions.

Q: Do I need to install any extra tools?
A: No the SQL Server Import and Export Wizard is built into SSMS.

Q: How long does the process take?
A: It depends on your data size, but small databases usually take just a few minutes.

Installing SQL Server and the Latest SSMS in 2025 – My Experience

 

Today, I installed SQL Server and the latest version of SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS) for 2025, and I thought of sharing the process with you. This post is connected to a video I’ve published on my YouTube channel, where I walk you through the installation step-by-step.

The idea for this video came from a call I had with my friend earlier today. He asked me how to install the latest SSMS, and I realized many people might find the process useful especially with the 2025 updates.

Why Install the Latest SSMS in 2025?

The 2025 version of SSMS is faster, more reliable, and easier to install than ever before. In the past, you had to deal with multiple setup packages, but now you can just download, run the installer, and start managing your databases.

Step 1 – Download SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS)

1. Go to the official Microsoft SSMS download page:
   🔗 Download SSMS from Microsoft

2. Click on the link for vs_SSMS to get the latest installer file.

3. Save it to your computer.

💡 Pro Tip: Always download SSMS from the official Microsoft site to avoid outdated or unsafe versions.

Step 2 – Install SSMS

1. Open the vs_SSMS.exe file you just downloaded.

2. Follow the on-screen instructions (default settings work for most users).

3. Wait for the installation to complete.

Step 3 – Install SQL Server (If You Haven’t Already)

If you don’t have SQL Server yet, download it from the official Microsoft page. You can choose:

• Developer Edition – Full features, free for learning & development.

• Express Edition – Lightweight and free, perfect for smaller workloads.

Run the installer, choose your features, and complete the setup.

Step 4 – Open SSMS and Connect to SQL Server

1. Launch SSMS from your Start Menu.

2. Enter your SQL Server instance name (for local installs, it’s often (local) or your PC name).

3. Click Connect.

That’s it  you’re now ready to run SQL queries, manage databases, and explore all the new 2025 features.

Video Tutorial

For a complete walkthrough, watch my YouTube video tutorial on installing SQL Server and SSMS 2025. I explain every click so you can follow along easily.

FAQs – Install SQL Server & SSMS 2025

Q: What is the latest version of SSMS in 2025?
A: As of 2025, Microsoft has released the latest SSMS version with improved performance, better integration with Azure, and simplified installation.

Q: Can I install SSMS without SQL Server?
A: Yes, SSMS can be installed separately and used to connect to any SQL Server instance, local or remote.

Q: How long does the installation take?
A: Usually between 5–15 minutes, depending on your internet speed and PC performance.

Q: Is SSMS free?
A: Yes, SQL Server Management Studio is completely free to download and use.