SQL Server & SQL Databases

SQL stands for Structured Query Language. A SQL database server is a computer that hosts one or more “industrial strength” databases which are used when a company works with large amounts of data (hundreds of megabytes, gigabytes, or terabytes) and/or a company that requires several users (ten or more) access the data simultaneously. Fast performance and reliable accessibility to SQL data are the number one reasons why companies choose to store their mission critical information on a SQL server database. Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems typically require a SQL server to store their data. An airline reservation system is another example of an application that would require a SQL server database to store and disseminate information. Microsoft publishes Microsoft SQL Server 2000 and Microsoft SQL Server 2005 to address these needs. Microsoft's Small Business Server 2003 Premium Edition comes with SQL Server 2000 as part of the package that includes Windows Server 2003 and Exchange Server 2003, but is limited to no more than 75 users.