SQL Server Int or BigInt database table Ids

Question

I am writing a new program and it will require a database (SQL Server 2008). Everything I am running now for the system is 64-bit, which brings me to this question. For all

Answer 1

You should judge each table individually as to what datatype would meet the needs for each one. If an INTEGER would meet the needs of a particular table, use that. If a SMALLINT would be sufficient, use that. Use the datatype that will last, without being excessive.