What is SQL Server Agent (SQL Agent)?

In this post, I will explain what is SQL Server Agent (SQL Agent).

SQL Server Agent (SQL Agent) is a component of Microsoft SQL Server which schedules jobs and handles other automated tasks. SQL Agent is an integral part of Microsoft’s SQL Server. It runs as a Windows service so can start automatically when the system boots or it can be started manually. It is a background tool for SQL Server.

SQL Agent allows DBA to perform a wide variety of automated task. These tasks include scheduling maintenance plans, handling Reporting Services subscriptions. User tasks, such as scheduling some T-SQL or command line statement are also possible.

SQL Agent tasks do not necessarily have to be related to SQL Server. For example, a daily backup job may be created to use a database backup to call an external program like WinZip to compress the backup file result, and then relocate the file by invoking the MOVE command.

SQL Agent job is a series of steps that can be defined using a graphical user interface (GUI) wizard which. After setting up a job, a DBA can schedule an execution of the job. DBA can schedule a job for one-time, daily, weekly or monthly. SQL Agent has support for operators and alerts, so database administrators can be notified by email.