Answer
Blocking occurs when one transaction holds a lock and others wait behind it.
Deadlock occurs when two transactions wait on each other, creating a cycle.
SQL Server detects deadlocks and kills one transaction (the victim) to resolve the cycle.
Quick Answer
Blocking: transaction A waits for transaction B to release a lock — eventually resolves when B commits or rolls back. Deadlock: two transactions each hold what the other needs — neither can proceed without intervention. SQL Server resolves deadlocks by killing one victim. Blocking is slow; deadlocks are forced terminations.
S
SugharaIQ Editorial Team
Verified Answer
This answer has been peer-reviewed by industry experts holding senior engineering roles to ensure technical accuracy and relevance for modern interview standards.
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Source: SugharaIQ