Issue
SQL Server is observed consuming almost all of the memory on a system configured with 64GB RAM, with memory utilization reaching around 85–94%. This appears high compared to the recommended 32GB baseline for Security Expert.
Product Line
EcoStruxure Security Expert
Environment
- Security Expert Client Server
- SQL Server
Warning
Potential for Data Loss: The steps detailed in the resolution of this article may result in a loss of critical data if not performed properly. Before beginning these steps, make sure all important data is backed up in the event of data loss. If you are unsure or unfamiliar with any complex steps detailed in this article, please contact Product Support for assistance.
Cause
Microsoft SQL Server is designed to aggressively consume available system memory to optimize performance when the max server memory limit is not explicitly configured. On Security Expert systems with higher RAM capacity, this behavior can appear abnormal when compared to minimum sizing guidance, even though it is expected SQL Server operation.
Resolution
This behavior is normal and expected.
- SQL Server is designed to aggressively use available memory to maximize performance (for example, buffer pool and query plan cache). If the max server memory setting is not configured, SQL Server can consume approximately 80–95% of available RAM and will only release memory when the operating system is under pressure.
- The 32GB RAM recommendation defined in the SX-SRVR Security Expert - Client Server - Installation Guide should be considered a minimum baseline, not a maximum limit. Larger systems with more controllers, events, integrations, and historical data may require significantly more memory.
- If it is necessary to limit SQL Server memory usage (for example, to 70–80%), configure the max server memory setting accordingly. For example, on a 64GB server, setting the limit to approximately 48GB allows sufficient RAM for the operating system.
- If performance degrades after applying a memory limit, this indicates that additional RAM may be required. In such cases, increasing total system memory and adjusting the SQL Server limit is recommended.
- The max server memory setting can be configured in SQL Server Management Studio under server properties (Memory tab) or via T-SQL using
sp_configure. Changes are applied immediately and do not require a restart. See Server memory configuration options Microsoft article for further details.
