ApexSQL Refactor

ApexSQL Refactor is an exceptional free SQL formatter and database refactoring tool for SQL Server, developed by ApexSQL Tools. The latest version, 2021.02.0453, is packed in a [FILE_SIZE] MB file, making it lightweight yet powerful. It seamlessly supports operating systems like Windows XP, Vista, 7, 8, 10, and 11, ensuring wide compatibility.

As a part of the Development Tools category and specifically the Database Tools subcategory, ApexSQL Refactor stands out for its robust features. It allows users to format SQL queries, refactor SQL code, and database tables with ease. Additionally, it supports SQL Server 2014 and Azure, enabling code formatting and refactoring directly within SQL Server 2014 Management Studio. Users will appreciate its compatibility with all Visual Studio versions, making it a versatile choice for many developers.

One of its most helpful features is the ability to split tables. This can significantly improve database design by partitioning large tables into more manageable sections. The tool also offers advanced SQL formatting capabilities, where users can create custom formatting profiles to share across teams. With over 160 customizable options, users can layout their SQL code precisely to meet their needs and preview the impact of the changes.

A notable feature is the Expand wildcards function, which transforms wildcard symbols into explicit column names, and the Qualify object names tool, which qualifies columns with schema table names and schema aliases. The program can also copy SQL code into various programming languages like Java, C#, PHP, Ruby, and more, greatly increasing its utility.

The tool's impact analysis highlights the differences changes might bring, enabling well-informed decisions. Furthermore, finding and removing unused variables and parameters helps clean up redundant code, making it more efficient. The ability to replace complex primary keys with surrogate keys and encapsulate SQL code into functions, procedures, and views is also beneficial.

For those looking to download an efficient, comprehensive, and free tool for SQL code formatting and refactoring, ApexSQL Refactor is a prime choice. It is also noteworthy that previous versions like 2020.0, 2018.0, and 2017.0 remain available, maintaining backward compatibility for users with specific requirements.

Pros:

• Freeware license
• Rich feature set for formatting and refactoring SQL
• Lightweight with a file size of just [FILE_SIZE] MB
• Wide OS compatibility and support for multiple Visual Studio versions
• Extensive customization options and impact analysis for changes

Cons:

• Advanced features may have a slight learning curve for beginners
• Optimal performance heavily reliant on system specifications and SQL Server version

It is not possible to confirm if there is a free download for this software available on the developer's website. We cannot guarantee that the program is safe to download as it will be downloaded from the developer's website. Before launching the program, check it with any free antivirus software.

You may want to check out more software, such as ApexSQL Developer Studio, ApexSQL Source Control or ApexSQL Audit, which might be similar to ApexSQL Refactor.