How to Alter Column Name in SQL Server 2014

When working with SQL Server 2014, it is common to encounter situations where you need to rename a column in an existing table. Renaming a column can help improve the readability and maintainability of your database. In this article, we will guide you through the process of altering a column name in SQL Server 2014 using the ALTER TABLE statement.

Before you proceed, ensure that you have the necessary permissions to modify the table structure. You should also have a clear understanding of the implications of renaming a column, such as potential issues with foreign key constraints and application logic.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to alter a column name in SQL Server 2014:

1. Open SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS) and connect to your SQL Server instance.

2. In the Object Explorer, expand the database where your table resides.

3. Right-click on the table you want to modify and select “Edit Top 200 Rows” or “Design” to open the table editor.

4. In the table editor, you will see a grid that displays the columns and their properties. To rename a column, click on the column name you want to change and type the new name in the column header.

5. Save your changes by clicking the “Save” button in the toolbar. You will be prompted to confirm the changes.

6. After confirming, the column name will be updated in the database.

Alternatively, you can use the following SQL statement to rename a column directly in the query window:

“`sql
EXEC sp_rename ‘dbo.YourTableName.YourColumnName’, ‘NewColumnName’, ‘COLUMN’;
“`

Replace “YourTableName” with the name of your table, “YourColumnName” with the current column name, and “NewColumnName” with the desired new column name.

Please note that this method requires you to have the necessary permissions to execute the system stored procedure sp_rename.

Keep in mind the following considerations when renaming a column:

– Ensure that the new column name follows the rules for valid SQL Server identifiers.
– If the table has foreign key constraints referencing the column you’re renaming, you will need to update the foreign key constraint to reflect the new column name.
– Make sure that your application logic is updated to use the new column name.

By following these steps and considerations, you can successfully alter a column name in SQL Server 2014, enhancing the structure and usability of your database.