SQL Server Tutorial

Server Database Systems

Server based database systems are designed to run on a central server, so that multiple users can access the same data simultaneously. The users normally access the database through an application.

For example, a website could store all its content in a database. Whenever a visitor views an article, they are retrieving data from the database. As you know, websites aren't normally limited to just one user. So, at any given moment, a website could be serving up hundreds, or even thousands of articles to its website visitors. At the same time, other users could be updating their personal profile in the members' area, or subscribing to a newsletter, or anything else that website users do.

Generally, it's the application that provides the functionality to these visitors. It is the database that stores the data and makes it available. Having said that, SQL Server does include some useful features that can assist the application in providing its functionality.



Here are the different editions available for SQL Server 2008.

• Enterprise Edition
  Data management and business intelligence platform providing enterprise class scalability, high availability, and security for running business-critical applications
• Standard Edition
  Data management and business intelligence platform providing ease of use and manageability for running departmental applications
• Workgroup Edition
  Data management and reporting platform providing secure, remote synchronization, and management capabilities for running branch applications
• Developer Edition
  May be installed and used by one user to design, develop, test, and demonstrate your programs on as many systems as needed
• Web Edition
  A low-TCO, scalable, and manageable database option for web hosters and end customers looking to deploy publicly facing web applications and services
• Express Edition
  A free edition of SQL Server ideal for learning and building desktop and small server applications and for redistribution by ISVs
• Compact Edition
  A free, SQL Server embedded database ideal for building stand-alone and occasionally connected applications for mobile devices, desktops, and web clients
• Evaluation Edition
  This edition may be installed for demonstration and evaluation purposes until an expiration period of 180 days.