Is AWE in SQL 2005 Ent needed on 2003 32-bit w/ 24GB?

Question

I have a WS 2003 32-bit system running SQL Server 2005 Enterprise with 24GB of RAM. The /PAE switch is enabled. Can SQL now use the 24GB or does AWE need to be enabled?

Answer 1

You need to enable AWE and also grant the SQL Server Service account the "Lock pages in memory" privilege.

Useful Reading: SQL Server 2005 awe and memory

For more concise steps consult the books online documentation: Enabling AWE Memory for SQL Server

Hope this helps but let me know if you have further questions.

Answer 2

It depends on what version of Windows you're running. Standard Edition will only see 4Gb irrelevant how many switches you add. You need Windows Server 2003 Enterprise Edition for the /PAE switch to see the entire 24GB of RAM. See Physical Memory Limits: Windows Server 2003.