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55246-A: SQL 2016 AlwaysOn High Availability

The 55246-A: SQL 2016 AlwaysOn High Availability course equips database administrators and Windows engineers with skills to implement and manage AlwaysOn solutions, addressing critical downtime risks in enterprise environments. With 98% of organizations requiring high availability for SQL Server workloads, mastering failover clustering and availability groups ensures continuous operations and data integrity across complex infrastructures.

This course prepares for the MCSA: SQL 2016 Database Administration certification, covering core exam objectives for 70-764 and 70-765. Koenig Solutions provides 30-day lab access, enabling hands-on practice with real-world scenarios, leading to confident deployment and management of highly available SQL environments in modern data centers.

24 Hours (3 Days)
Live Online / Classroom
41+ professionals trained

Training Formats & Pricing

1-on-1 USD 2,210
Dedicated instructor, your schedule Fastest
Public Batch USD 1,700
Group class, fixed schedule Most Popular
Self-Paced USD 199
Recorded sessions, learn anytime Best Value

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Course Overview

The Microsoft course 55246-A: SQL 2016 AlwaysOn High Availability is a three-day instructor-led training designed for database administrators, Windows engineers, and IT professionals responsible for managing SQL Server environments. It prepares learners for the retired MCSA: SQL 2016 Database Administration certification, specifically targeting exam 70-764: Administering a SQL Database Infrastructure. This course serves job roles such as Database Administrator, Infrastructure Architect, and Senior Database Engineer. With 98% of Fortune 500 companies relying on Microsoft SQL Server for mission-critical applications, expertise in AlwaysOn technologies is in high demand for ensuring business continuity and minimizing downtime across enterprise systems.

Students in the 55246-A: SQL 2016 AlwaysOn High Availability course engage with core technologies including Windows Server 2016 Failover Clustering, SQL Server 2016 Failover Cluster Instances (FCI), AlwaysOn Availability Groups, SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS), and the AlwaysOn Dashboard. The hands-on lab environment simulates real-world infrastructure using iSCSI storage, shared disks, and clustered virtual machines. Participants build a fully functional Windows Server 2016 failover cluster, configure quorum settings, and deploy SQL Server FCIs. A key project involves creating and managing an AlwaysOn Availability Group with multiple replicas, configuring read-only routing for reporting workloads, and implementing automatic failover with synchronous commit mode to ensure zero data loss during outages.

This 55246-A: SQL 2016 AlwaysOn High Availability training by Microsoft directly prepares candidates for the MCSA: SQL 2016 Database Administration certification, which remains a respected credential in enterprise data management despite its retirement, validating deep expertise in high availability and disaster recovery. Professionals with these skills report median salaries of $115,000 in North America, according to industry compensation surveys. Koenig Solutions enhances this learning with official Microsoft courseware and a Guaranteed-to-Run schedule, ensuring training continuity. Upon completion, graduates are equipped to design resilient database architectures that support 24/7 operations, positioning them for advancement into senior DBA or cloud data engineer roles.

What You'll Learn

Configure Windows Server Failover Clustering for Microsoft SQL Server 2016 AlwaysOn High Availability to ensure seamless failover support
Enable the Microsoft SQL Server 2016 AlwaysOn Availability Groups feature to improve database availability and disaster recovery
Deploy primary and secondary replicas in a Microsoft SQL Server 2016 AlwaysOn availability group for high-performance, fault-tolerant data access
Create and manage an availability group listener using Microsoft tools to direct client connections efficiently
Configure read-only routing and backup preferences on replicas to optimize workload distribution and data protection
Monitor and troubleshoot availability group health using Microsoft SQL Server Management Studio for reliable database performance

Skills You'll Gain

SQL Server 2016 AlwaysOn Availability Groups Failover Clustering High Availability Availability Group Listener Synchronous Commit Mode Asynchronous Commit Mode Readable Secondary Replica Read-Only Routing Failover Cluster Instance Database Mirroring Log Shipping Backup Preference Extended Events Policy Based Management DBCC Checks Windows Server 2016

Prerequisites

Recommended knowledge before taking this course
  • Experience as a Windows IT professional managing Active Directory and Group Policy, essential for implementing SQL Server 2016 AlwaysOn High Availability solutions from Microsoft
  • Experience as a SQL Server database administrator performing backup, restore, and maintenance tasks, vital for ensuring high availability and disaster recovery with SQL 2016 AlwaysOn
  • Understanding of Windows Server Failover Clustering (WSFC) concepts and configuration, critical for deploying SQL Server 2016 AlwaysOn High Availability clusters
  • Familiarity with SQL Server 2016 instance configuration and database mirroring endpoints, necessary for setting up and managing AlwaysOn availability groups
  • Knowledge of TCP/IP networking, DNS, and SPN registration for Kerberos authentication, important for secure and reliable SQL Server 2016 AlwaysOn deployments
  • Hands-on experience with SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS) and Transact-SQL, key skills for managing and troubleshooting SQL 2016 AlwaysOn High Availability environments
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Certification Exam

Everything you need to know about the 55246-A: SQL 2016 AlwaysOn High Availability certification exam

Exam Details
Exam Name
55246-A: SQL 2016 AlwaysOn High Availability
Exam Cost
Not applicable
Format
Multiple choice, labs & case studies
Questions
Duration
Passing Score
Validity
Retake Policy
Not applicable
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55246-A: SQL 2016 AlwaysOn High Availability

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Course Curriculum

Structured learning with hands-on labs and real-world scenarios

1
Day 1– Mastering 55246-A: SQL 2016 AlwaysOn High Availability Concepts
AlwaysOn High Availability Terminology Essentials Defining Recovery Time Objective (RTO) Defining Recovery Point Objective (RPO) Reviewing Legacy High Availability Solutions Managing Database Mirroring and Replication Configuring Log Shipping for Resilience Failover Cluster Instances Technical Overview Windows Server 2016 Failover Clustering Basics
2
Day 2– Deploying Microsoft SQL Server Failover Clustering and FCI
Configuring Shared Storage via iSCSI Optimizing Quorum Settings and Node Majority Implementing Cluster Network Best Practices Installing Windows Failover Cluster Features Building a Robust Windows Server Cluster Deploying SQL Server Failover Cluster Instances Validating SQL FCI Failover Performance Utilizing Advanced Cluster Preparation Wizards
3
Day 3– Advanced AlwaysOn Availability Groups and Readable Secondaries
Enabling AlwaysOn Availability Groups Architecture Managing Primary and Secondary Replicas Comparing Synchronous vs Asynchronous Commit Configuring Automatic and Manual Failover Setting Up Availability Group Listeners Configuring Readable Secondary Replica Access Implementing Read-Only Routing Configurations Load Balancing Using Secondary Replicas
4
Day 4– Maintenance Operations for Microsoft SQL Server Availability Groups
Managing Databases within Availability Groups Scaling Availability Group Replica Sets Executing Database Backups on Secondaries Optimizing Backup Preference Settings Performing DBCC Checks on AG Databases Implementing Partially Contained Database Strategies Replicating SQL Server Logins and Jobs Lab: Configuring Read-Only Secondary Access
5
Day 5– Monitoring and Troubleshooting 55246-A SQL Availability Policies
Monitoring via AlwaysOn Dashboard Tools Analyzing SQL Server Error Logs Using Extended Events for Availability Configuring Policy Based Management Systems Defining RTO and RPO Policy Standards Testing Failover Policy Compliance Metrics Deep Dive: Monitoring AG Dashboard Managing SQL Server Endpoint Ownership

What's Included in Your Training

Every enrollment comes packed with resources to maximise your learning and exam success

Hands-On Lab

Live Lab Sandbox

Real Environment

Practice in a real lab environment with full access to the tools and services covered in the course.

30+ Guided Labs

30+

Step-by-step lab exercises designed to reinforce each module with practical, hands-on tasks.

Lab Manual Included

Full Guide

Comprehensive lab guide with detailed instructions, screenshots, and troubleshooting tips.

Post-Training Access

30 Days

30 days of extended lab access after your training ends so you can continue practicing.

Career Outcomes

78%

of 55246-A: SQL 2016 AlwaysOn High Availability certified professionals report career advancement within 6 months

Salary Impact

+27%

Average salary increase reported after obtaining the 55246-A: SQL 2016 AlwaysOn High Availability certification

Typical Salary Range (Global)
Entry$90,000–$115,000
Mid$115,000–$145,000
Senior$145,000–$180,000

*Source: Glassdoor / LinkedIn 2025

Job Roles

6
  • SQL Server Database Administrator
  • Senior SQL DBA
  • Database High Availability Engineer
  • SQL Server Architect
  • Microsoft SQL Specialist
  • Database Operations Lead

Companies Hiring

5,000+
Microsoft Accenture Deloitte IBM JPMorgan Chase Capgemini Cognizant Infosys Bank of America UnitedHealth Group

and 5,000+ organizations worldwide seeking 55246-A: SQL 2016 AlwaysOn High Availability certified professionals

Meet Your Instructor

👤
Devpriyam Sharma
12+
Years Exp.
5,000+
Students
4.9
Avg Rating
As a highly skilled Certified Trainer with extensive experience in database administration, system administration, Oracle applications, troubleshooting, and backup recovery, I bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to any organization. I specialize in delivering training on various database systems management tools, ensuring that individuals can acquire and retain the knowledge and skills needed to excel in their roles.
Throughout my career, I have designed and delivered custom training solutions that are tailored to meet the specific needs of organizations. I have worked with a wide range of clients, including small businesses, large corporations, and government agencies. I am passionate about sharing my knowledge with others and helping them to achieve their career goals through effective training.
I possess exceptional technical skills, including proficiency in database administration, system administration, Oracle applications, troubleshooting, and backup recovery. I am highly detail-oriented, ensuring that all aspects of the training process are carefully planned and executed to meet the needs of the individuals and organizations I work with.
With my strong communication skills and ability to work collaboratively with clients and stakeholders, I have built strong, long-lasting relationships with clients and stakeholders, resulting in repeat business and referrals. Overall, my extensive experience, technical expertise, and client-focused approach make me an ideal candidate for any role that requires a Certified Trainer with experience in delivering training on various database systems management tools.
Associated with Koenig since April 2014.
Real Transformations

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Real results from IT professionals who trained with Koenig — rated 4.9/5 from 18,400+ verified reviews.

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  • ★★★★★

    “Passed AZ-104 on first attempt. The MCT knew the exact exam patterns and the labs were exactly what Microsoft tests. Worth every penny.”

    Rahul M.

    Rahul M.

    Azure Administrator

    AZ-104 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “I trained 15 of my team members for SC-200. Koenig's on-site delivery was seamless and all 15 passed within 3 months.”

    Sarah K.

    Sarah K.

    CISO, Financial Services

    Enterprise Client ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “The 1-on-1 format was a game changer. My trainer adjusted the pace to my schedule and I cleared PL-300 while working full-time.”

    Ahmed R.

    Ahmed R.

    Business Intelligence Lead

    PL-300 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “From AZ-900 to AZ-305 in 6 months. Koenig's structured roadmap and MCT mentoring made the expert level achievable.”

    Priya S.

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    Cloud Solutions Architect

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  • ★★★★★

    “As an L&D head I've used 5 training vendors. Koenig's MCT quality, MOC materials, and ESI compliance is in a different league.”

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    “SC-900 and SC-300 back to back — both cleared first try. The security curriculum at Koenig is incredibly thorough and up to date.”

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    SC-300 Certified ✓ Verified
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    “AI-102 was daunting but the trainer broke it down perfectly. Real Azure OpenAI labs made the difference. Highly recommend.”

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    AI Engineer

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    “DP-600 Fabric certification done in 3 weeks of part-time study. The customised schedule around my timezone was a lifesaver.”

    Mei W.

    Mei W.

    Data Platform Engineer

    DP-600 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “Our whole DevOps team got AZ-400 certified through Koenig's corporate training. Smooth logistics and top-tier MCTs throughout.”

    Carlos R.

    Carlos R.

    Engineering Manager

    AZ-400 Team Training ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “Passed AZ-104 on first attempt. The MCT knew the exact exam patterns and the labs were exactly what Microsoft tests. Worth every penny.”

    Rahul M.

    Rahul M.

    Azure Administrator

    AZ-104 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “I trained 15 of my team members for SC-200. Koenig's on-site delivery was seamless and all 15 passed within 3 months.”

    Sarah K.

    Sarah K.

    CISO, Financial Services

    Enterprise Client ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “The 1-on-1 format was a game changer. My trainer adjusted the pace to my schedule and I cleared PL-300 while working full-time.”

    Ahmed R.

    Ahmed R.

    Business Intelligence Lead

    PL-300 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “Passed AZ-104 on first attempt. The MCT knew the exact exam patterns and the labs were exactly what Microsoft tests. Worth every penny.”

    Rahul M.

    Rahul M.

    Azure Administrator

    AZ-104 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “I trained 15 of my team members for SC-200. Koenig's on-site delivery was seamless and all 15 passed within 3 months.”

    Sarah K.

    Sarah K.

    CISO, Financial Services

    Enterprise Client ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “The 1-on-1 format was a game changer. My trainer adjusted the pace to my schedule and I cleared PL-300 while working full-time.”

    Ahmed R.

    Ahmed R.

    Business Intelligence Lead

    PL-300 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “From AZ-900 to AZ-305 in 6 months. Koenig's structured roadmap and MCT mentoring made the expert level achievable.”

    Priya S.

    Priya S.

    Cloud Solutions Architect

    AZ-305 Expert ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “As an L&D head I've used 5 training vendors. Koenig's MCT quality, MOC materials, and ESI compliance is in a different league.”

    James T.

    James T.

    Head of L&D, UK Enterprise

    100+ Learners Trained ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “SC-900 and SC-300 back to back — both cleared first try. The security curriculum at Koenig is incredibly thorough and up to date.”

    Aisha N.

    Aisha N.

    Security Analyst

    SC-300 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “From AZ-900 to AZ-305 in 6 months. Koenig's structured roadmap and MCT mentoring made the expert level achievable.”

    Priya S.

    Priya S.

    Cloud Solutions Architect

    AZ-305 Expert ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “As an L&D head I've used 5 training vendors. Koenig's MCT quality, MOC materials, and ESI compliance is in a different league.”

    James T.

    James T.

    Head of L&D, UK Enterprise

    100+ Learners Trained ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “SC-900 and SC-300 back to back — both cleared first try. The security curriculum at Koenig is incredibly thorough and up to date.”

    Aisha N.

    Aisha N.

    Security Analyst

    SC-300 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “AI-102 was daunting but the trainer broke it down perfectly. Real Azure OpenAI labs made the difference. Highly recommend.”

    David L.

    David L.

    AI Engineer

    AI-102 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “DP-600 Fabric certification done in 3 weeks of part-time study. The customised schedule around my timezone was a lifesaver.”

    Mei W.

    Mei W.

    Data Platform Engineer

    DP-600 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “Our whole DevOps team got AZ-400 certified through Koenig's corporate training. Smooth logistics and top-tier MCTs throughout.”

    Carlos R.

    Carlos R.

    Engineering Manager

    AZ-400 Team Training ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “AI-102 was daunting but the trainer broke it down perfectly. Real Azure OpenAI labs made the difference. Highly recommend.”

    David L.

    David L.

    AI Engineer

    AI-102 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “DP-600 Fabric certification done in 3 weeks of part-time study. The customised schedule around my timezone was a lifesaver.”

    Mei W.

    Mei W.

    Data Platform Engineer

    DP-600 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “Our whole DevOps team got AZ-400 certified through Koenig's corporate training. Smooth logistics and top-tier MCTs throughout.”

    Carlos R.

    Carlos R.

    Engineering Manager

    AZ-400 Team Training ✓ Verified

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about the 55246-A: SQL 2016 AlwaysOn High Availability training course

Is the certification exam included in the 55246-A: SQL 2016 AlwaysOn High Availability course, and what is the exam cost?
The certification exam is not included in the 55246-A: SQL 2016 AlwaysOn High Availability course by Microsoft. The relevant exam, 70-764: Administering a SQL Database Infrastructure, costs $165 USD. Note that Microsoft retired this exam on January 31, 2021. We recommend pursuing modern credentials like the Microsoft Certified: Azure Data Engineer Associate for career growth.
What training formats are available for the 55246-A course, and does Koenig offer Guaranteed-to-Run scheduling?
Koenig Solutions offers the 55246-A: SQL 2016 AlwaysOn High Availability course via live online instructor-led, 1-on-1 personalized, and classroom formats. All batches are Guaranteed-to-Run. This ensures your training proceeds even with a single enrollment, providing you with reliable, stress-free scheduling without the risk of cancellations due to low class attendance.
How long is lab access provided for the 55246-A course, and what type of lab environment is used?
You receive 6 months of lab access for the 55246-A: SQL 2016 AlwaysOn High Availability course via our cloud-based TechLabs. This environment features virtual machines with preconfigured SQL Server 2016 instances. You will master AlwaysOn configurations, failover clustering, and high availability scenarios in a secure, sandboxed environment designed for maximum hands-on skill retention.
What is Koenig Solutions’ rescheduling and cancellation policy for the 55246-A course?
Koenig allows flexible rescheduling for the 55246-A: SQL 2016 AlwaysOn High Availability course. A 50% cancellation fee applies if you request changes within 10 days of the start date. You may reschedule the same training once. Please process all cancellations before the course begins to ensure you avoid incurring any additional full-price charges.
What is the format, number of questions, passing score, and time limit for the exam associated with 55246-A?
The 70-764 exam for the 55246-A: SQL 2016 AlwaysOn High Availability course included 40–60 questions, covering multiple-choice and case studies. It allowed 150 minutes with a 700/1000 passing score. Microsoft officially retired this exam on January 31, 2021. It is no longer available for certification, so focus on current Microsoft role-based exams instead.
How long is the certification earned through 55246-A valid, and what is the renewal process and cost?
The MCSA: SQL 2016 Database Administration certification linked to 55246-A: SQL 2016 AlwaysOn High Availability was valid indefinitely but retired on January 31, 2021. Microsoft no longer offers renewal paths for this credential. Professionals should transition to modern role-based certifications like the Microsoft Certified: Azure Data Engineer Associate, which require annual renewal via free online assessments.
What post-training support does Koenig provide after completing the 55246-A course?
After your 55246-A: SQL 2016 AlwaysOn High Availability course, Koenig provides 6 months of lab access and recorded sessions via the LET platform. You gain online access to expert instructors for doubt resolution. You can also purchase an additional 4-hour live 1-on-1 session with a trainer for personalized guidance on complex high availability topics.
What are the prerequisites or prior experience needed to attend the 55246-A: SQL 2016 AlwaysOn High Availability course?
To succeed in the 55246-A: SQL 2016 AlwaysOn High Availability course, you should have experience as a SQL Server DBA or Windows IT professional. You need hands-on knowledge of database administration and server roles. Familiarity with SQL Server 2012–2014 and Windows Server 2016 failover clustering is strongly recommended to master these advanced high availability concepts.
What is the salary impact or career advancement potential after completing the 55246-A course?
Completing the 55246-A: SQL 2016 AlwaysOn High Availability course builds vital skills for database administration. Professionals with these competencies earn a median salary of $95,000–$120,000 USD annually. Senior roles in data infrastructure or cloud engineering often exceed $140,000. These skills provide a strong foundation for transitioning into high-demand Azure-based data engineering and cloud certification paths.
How does instructor-led training for 55246-A compare to self-study in terms of effectiveness and time investment?
The 55246-A: SQL 2016 AlwaysOn High Availability course is a 3-day intensive program. It replaces 40–60 hours of self-study with structured, expert-led instruction. You gain immediate doubt resolution and hands-on practice with complex AlwaysOn Availability Groups. This accelerated learning path ensures you master critical high availability configurations faster and more effectively than through independent study.
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