Learn T-SQL Querying. A guide to developing efficient and elegant T-SQL code

Pedro Lopes, Pam Lahoud

Transact-SQL (T-SQL) is Microsoft's proprietary extension to the SQL language used with Microsoft SQL Server and Azure SQL Database. This book will be a usefu to learning the art of writing efficient T-SQL code in modern SQL Server versions as well as the Azure SQL Database.The book will get you started with query processing fundamentals to help you write powerful, performant T-SQL queries. You will then focus on query execution plans and leverage them for troubleshooting. In later chapters, you will explain how to identify various T-SQL patterns and anti-patterns. This will help you analyze execution plans to gain insights into current performance, and determine whether or not a query is scalable. You will also build diagnostic queries using dynamic management views (DMVs) and dynamic management functions (DMFs) to address various challenges in T-SQL execution. Next, you will work with the built-in tools of SQL Server to shorten the time taken to address query performance and scalability issues. In the concluding chapters, this will guide you through implementing various features, such as Extended Events, Query Store, and Query Tuning Assistant, using hands-on examples.By the end of the book, you will have developed the skills to determine query performance bottlenecks, avoid pitfalls, and discover the anti-patterns in use.

Decoding Large Language Models. An exhaustive guide to understanding, implementing, and optimizing LLMs for NLP applications

Irena Cronin

Ever wondered how large language models (LLMs) work and how they're shaping the future of artificial intelligence? Written by a renowned author and AI, AR, and data expert, Decoding Large Language Models is a combination of deep technical insights and practical use cases that not only demystifies complex AI concepts, but also guides you through the implementation and optimization of LLMs for real-world applications.You’ll learn about the structure of LLMs, how they're developed, and how to utilize them in various ways. The chapters will help you explore strategies for improving these models and testing them to ensure effective deployment. Packed with real-life examples, this book covers ethical considerations, offering a balanced perspective on their societal impact. You’ll be able to leverage and fine-tune LLMs for optimal performance with the help of detailed explanations. You’ll also master techniques for training, deploying, and scaling models to be able to overcome complex data challenges with confidence and precision. This book will prepare you for future challenges in the ever-evolving fields of AI and NLP.By the end of this book, you’ll have gained a solid understanding of the architecture, development, applications, and ethical use of LLMs and be up to date with emerging trends, such as GPT-5.

Practical Game Design. Learn the art of game design through applicable skills and cutting-edge insights

Adam Kramarzewski, Ennio De Nucci

If you are looking for an up-to-date and highly applicable guide to game design, then you have come to the right place! Immerse yourself in the fundamentals of game design with this book, written by two highly experienced industry professionals to share their profound insights as well as give valuable advice on creating games across genres and development platforms.This book covers the basics of game design one piece at a time. Starting with learning how to conceptualize a game idea and present it to the development team, you will gradually move on to devising a design plan for the whole project and adapting solutions from other games. You will also discover how to produce original game mechanics without relying on existing reference material, and test and eliminate anticipated design risks. You will then design elements that compose the playtime of a game, followed by making game mechanics, content, and interface accessible to all players. You will also find out how to simultaneously ensure that the gameplay mechanics and content are working as intended.As the book reaches its final chapters, you will learn to wrap up a game ahead of its release date, work through the different challenges of designing free-to-play games, and understand how to significantly improve their quality through iteration, polishing and playtesting.

Instant OSSEC Host-based Intrusion Detection System. A hands-on guide exploring OSSEC HIDS for operational and security awareness

Brad Lhotsky

Security software is often expensive, restricting, burdensome, and noisy. OSSEC-HIDS was designed to avoid getting in your way and to allow you to take control of and extract real value from industry security requirements. OSSEC-HIDS is a comprehensive, robust solution to many common security problems faced in organizations of all sizes.Instant OSSEC-HIDS is a practical guide to take you from beginner to power user through recipes designed based on real- world experiences. Recipes are designed to provide instant impact while containing enough detail to allow the reader to further explore the possibilities. Using real world examples, this book will take you from installing a simple, local OSSEC-HIDS service to commanding a network of servers running OSSEC-HIDS with customized checks, alerts, and automatic responses.You will learn how to maximise the accuracy, effectiveness, and performance of OSSEC-HIDS' analyser, file integrity monitor, and malware detection module. You will flip the table on security software and put OSSEC-HIDS to work validating its own alerts before escalating them. You will also learn how to write your own rules, decoders, and active responses. You will rest easy knowing your servers can protect themselves from most attacks while being intelligent enough to notify you when they need help!You will learn how to use OSSEC-HIDS to save time, meet security requirements, provide insight into your network, and protect your assets.

Mastering Spring Boot 3.0. A comprehensive guide to building scalable and efficient backend systems with Java and Spring

Ahmet Meric

Mastering Spring Boot 3.0 is your gateway to building scalable and robust backend systems using the latest techniques. Penned by a seasoned software developer with 20+ years of experience in the tech industry, this book follows a hands-on, step-by-step approach to helping you understand Spring Boot concepts and apply them to real-world projects.You’ll start by exploring key architectural patterns such as DDD, CQRS, and event sourcing. Next, you’ll focus on the nuances of reactive REST development, delve into advanced testing strategies, and fortify your applications' security. You’ll also discover the power of containerization and orchestration with Spring Boot 3.0 and unlock its potential for smooth deployments. Additionally, by integrating Kafka, you’ll be able to build robust event-driven systems.By the end of this book, you’ll have become proficient in architectural patterns, testing strategies, and application security. Whether you’re an architect, backend developer, or DevOps engineer, this book will help you leverage the advanced features of Spring Boot 3.0 for secure and efficient backend development.

Learning Veeam Backup & Replication for VMware vSphere. Learn how to protect your data in your VMware vSphere infrastructure with Veeam Backup & Replication

Christian Mohn

CompTIA Security+: SY0-601 Certification Guide. Complete coverage of the new CompTIA Security+ (SY0-601) exam to help you pass on the first attempt - Second Edition

Ian Neil

The CompTIA Security+ certification validates the fundamental knowledge required to perform core security functions and pursue a career in IT security. Authored by Ian Neil, a world-class CompTIA certification trainer, this book is a best-in-class study guide that fully covers the CompTIA Security+ 601 exam objectives.Complete with chapter review questions, realistic mock exams, and worked solutions, this guide will help you master the core concepts to pass the exam the first time you take it. With the help of relevant examples, you'll learn fundamental security concepts from certificates and encryption to identity and access management (IAM). As you progress, you'll delve into the important domains of the exam, including cloud security, threats, attacks and vulnerabilities, technologies and tools, architecture and design, risk management, cryptography, and public key infrastructure (PKI).You can access extra practice materials, including flashcards, performance-based questions, practical labs, mock exams, key terms glossary, and exam tips on the author's website at securityplus.training.By the end of this Security+ book, you'll have gained the knowledge and understanding to take the CompTIA exam with confidence.

Mastering Linux Shell Scripting. Master the complexities of Bash shell scripting and unlock the power of shell for your enterprise

Andrew Mallett

Shell scripting is a quick method to prototype a complex application or a problem by automating tasks when working on Linux-based systems. Using both simple one-line commands and command sequences complex problems can be solved with ease, from text processing to backing up sysadmin tools.In this book, you’ll discover everything you need to know to master shell scripting and make informed choices about the elements you employ. Get to grips with the fundamentals of creating and running a script in normal mode, and in debug mode. Learn about various conditional statements' code snippets, and realize the power of repetition and loops in your shell script. Implement functions and edit files using the Stream Editor, script in Perl, program in Python – as well as complete coverage of other scripting languages to ensure you can choose the best tool for your project.