Insight into SQL Database Errors

SQL stands for Structured Query Language, which is a standardized computer programming language that obtains information from certain databases and makes it understandable. Each specific computer application will have a unique version of SQL that incorporates features that are specific for that particular application. Regardless of some of the unique content for each application, SQL has some basic components that make it universal for all SQL databases so there is commonality among the language.

The core function of SQL is to interact with queries, modify data and manage databases that will allow for the retrieval, update, insertion and deletion of data in standard and/or remote databases. Since the development of SQL in the 1970’s, many versions of the SQL language have been released and adopted. The database and the SQL language has allowed for a much easier, more costly way to manage information on a large scale.

There are several errors that can be generated by SQL, with each error message having an associated number that specifically identifies what the error is. This is designed so the user can lookup the error and take steps to correct it manually before having to seek outside assistance.

Looking quickly at a SQL generated error, it would appear that it is a garbled mess of letters, numbers and words that don’t mean anything. This is actually not the case at all. Out of all of the errors that exist, the SQL errors actually tell you something useable about what is going on.
Every SQL error will have a message number, severity level, state of error and error message included. These parts make up the error that is received by the user. For example, if you receive an error message that states the following: Msg 208, Level 2, State 1, Line 110, Length of text, or image data to be replicated exceeds configured maximum, this is what it is telling you:

• Msg 208 is the message number, which identifies the type of error you are dealing with.
• The severity level is indicated by a number between 1 and 25, the more severe the error the higher the number.
• The state of the error is the source of information that relates to the origin of the error location. The states are given a value between 1 and 127 and tell you where the error is located on your document.
• The error message is the actual description of the error that provides the user information in words about the error.

A SQL error may occur when the information being added, deleted or changed in a database does not follow the rules of SQL. The database needs to understand the data in order for the system to work properly. When the instructions for use are not properly followed, either by the active user or the programmer, this may result in an error. The error code, such as the one listed above, provides the information necessary to repair the error, allowing the form in the database to again begin to function properly.

Of course, if you are working remotely or trying to input data into a website and come across a SQL error, there is not a lot that you can do. Your best bet is to pass the information on to the webmaster of the site so they can rectify the situation and get the site’s database up and running again.