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JosephPilov-MSFT edited this page Apr 25, 2026 · 3 revisions

What is the quickest way to learn this tool?

Go to the How to use SQL Nexus page and follow the quick steps there on data collection, importing, and analyzing results. You can also check out the How to Videos page for step-by-step video tutorials.

What tool should I use to collect data for SQL Nexus?

SQL LogScout is the recommended modern data collection tool for SQL Server on both Windows and Linux. PSSDIAG/DiagManager is the legacy alternative for older environments.

Can SQL Nexus import data collected from multiple instances?

SQL Nexus imports data for one instance at a time. If the folder you specify contains data collected from multiple SQL Server instances, SQL Nexus will detect this and prompt you to select which instance to import. Once the import for one instance is complete, create a new database and repeat the import process to analyze a different instance.

What version of SQL Server do I need to import data into?

SQL Nexus requires a SQL Server 2016 or later instance as the target database where it imports and analyzes data. This does not need to be the same server you are troubleshooting — it is recommended to use a separate non-production instance.

Why are my reports empty after import? The most common reasons are:

  • The ReadTrace (RML Utilities) importer was disabled — check Import → Options → Importers
  • The data folder path points to a file instead of a folder
  • The wrong SQL Server instance was selected during import (for multi-instance collections)
  • The collected data does not contain files matching the expected formats (.out, .trc, .xel, .blg)

See Top Issues for more detailed troubleshooting steps.

Why does SQL Nexus say "database already contains Nexus data"?

You are importing into a database that was previously used with SQL Nexus. Either enable Drop existing tables in Import → Options, or select <New Database> from the database dropdown on the toolbar to start fresh.

Does SQL Nexus support SQL Server on Linux?

Yes. SQL Nexus can import and analyze Linux performance data (IO stats, CPU, memory, networking, process stats) collected by SQL LogScout. Enable the Linux Perf importer under Import → Options → Importers before importing.

I received an error — what do I do?

Check the Top Issues page first. If your issue is not listed there, visit GitHub Discussions to search for answers or ask a question.

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