Let us continue our question of the day series with day thirteen.

What is the purpose of the master database (besides handling the puppets)?

The master database is the heart and soul of your SQL Server.  It stores all of the system-level information for your system such as system configuration and linked servers.   In previous versions SQL Server used to store system objects in the master database, but they are now stored in the resource database.

Check out my interview with the mysterious resource database.  Enjoy!