How to Manage IDENTITY_INSERT in SQL Server 2008?

Controlling IDENTITY_INSERT in SQL Server 2008

Inserting data into tables with identity columns in SQL Server 2008 sometimes requires overriding the automatic identity value generation. Attempting a direct insert with a specified value when IDENTITY_INSERT is off will result in an error.

To insert explicit values, you need to temporarily enable IDENTITY_INSERT. This is done using the following T-SQL command:

<code class="language-sql">SET IDENTITY_INSERT DatabaseName.SchemaName.TableName ON;</code>

Replace DatabaseName, SchemaName, and TableName with your database, schema, and table names respectively.

Now you can insert data with a specified value for the identity column:

<code class="language-sql">INSERT INTO YourTable (IdentityColumn, Column2, Column3, ...)
VALUES (YourIdentityValue, Value2, Value3, ...);</code>

Crucially, always remember to disable IDENTITY_INSERT after your inserts are complete:

<code class="language-sql">SET IDENTITY_INSERT YourTable OFF;</code>

Failing to turn IDENTITY_INSERT off can lead to inconsistencies and errors.

Alternatively, you can manage this setting through SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS). Locate your table in Object Explorer, right-click, select "Properties," navigate to the "Identity Specification" tab, and check "Allow IDENTITY_INSERT." However, remember this is a GUI equivalent of the T-SQL commands; the underlying mechanism remains the same. Direct T-SQL control offers more programmatic flexibility.

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