automate a SQL query to run every month

Question

I have a simple SQL query that updates some date fields in a record, on a SQL Express instance.

I'd like to have it run automatically every month. What is the best way of accomplishing this in SQL Server 2005 Express using the Management Studio?

Scudo

Have a .bat file run on a certain day to do this query, could work. – Joleen

Why would you ever use a .bat when you can use a job that is built into SQL Server exactly for this purpose? – Airla

@matt, because you didn't read the question. sql server express doesn't come with sql server agent. ie, the thing that lets you schedule tasks in sql server. – Weywadt

Answer 1

For SQL Server Express, there are a few possibilities. Unfortunately none of them involve Management Studio:

1. Use a combination of Windows Scheduler, sqlcmd.exe, and .bat files
2. Use SQL Server Service Broker
3. Use a Codeplex variation of SQL Agent
4. Use SQL Scheduler (free download)

Statement

Answer 2

Create a job with monthly schedule in Sql Agent and assign a T-Sql task to it with this query.

Farrington

I don't seem to see a SQL Agent. Sorry I failed to mention this was Sql Server 2005 Express and I'm using Management Studio Express. Can I still accomplish this? Thanks! – Scudo

This would be a good option if there was another non-Express SKU of SQL Server running elsewhere. – Emulous

down voted because they didn't look up that express doesn't come with sql server agent. – Weywadt

Answer 3

you can make use of bat file to connect to your sql express using sqlcmd.exe and then set that bat file in windows scheduler to run it at desired time of interval.

Saguaro