Answer
A deadlock occurs when transactions block each other while waiting for resources. SQL Server resolves it by killing one transaction.
Quick Answer
A deadlock happens when two transactions each hold a lock the other needs — both wait forever. SQL Server's deadlock monitor detects the cycle and kills the cheaper transaction (the deadlock victim), rolling it back and returning an error. The other transaction then completes normally.
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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