SQL Server

The phrase SQL server can refer to a database software program that supports the Structured Query Language (SQL) or it could mean a database server with a version of SQL loaded on it. There are several versions or dialects of SQL as a software program, including MySQL, MS SQL (which also is called Microsoft SQL server) and PostrgreSQL. All of them use the standard SQL language as a base, but then add their own unique extensions to create a unique SQL server language.

SQL Server as Database Server

As a database server, SQL server, is among the most popular in use. A SQL server is relatively inexpensive compared to other database servers, such as Oracle, and is capable of handling most databases. Oracle still has an edge over SQL server in very large databases.

SQL server is growing very rapidly in client/server systems that use distributed databases. A SQL server can be used simultaneously by many users on a local area network or linked via the Internet.

SQL Server Issues

It is very important you get a database server configured correctly the first time. This configuration will determine how well the database performs, how easy it will be to increase the throughput, and how easy it will be to back-up. To achieve this your SQL server provider must be familiar with the requirements of SQL server. This is true whether you use internal resources, an external hosting company or a remote management provider. Many hosting providers are familiar with web hosting, but have little experience with SQL server, particularly in complex clusters. A database is much more dynamic than a web site, so your SQL server provider must be technically skilled.

There can be great value to having a database available on the Internet, but only if your Microsoft SQL server provider can properly configure and maintain it.