Datasheet

that are not likely to be issues for these smaller computing environ-
ments. Some of these restrictions include
Hardware and database size constraints
Diminished high availability
Reduced business intelligence
Express: Now it’s time to look at the star of this show. This is the sim-
plest and easiest to use database offering in the SQL Server 2005 prod-
uct family. On top of that accolade, it’s also free to download and
redistribute (with some licensing restrictions).
This is the right edition for you if any of the following describe you:
A software developer (seasoned or brand-new) wanting to learn
about relational databases.
A packaged application provider looking to embed a free, yet
sturdy database with your solution.
An end user with a lot of information to store, but not a lot of cash
to buy a database.
To get the lowdown on the differences among each SQL Server 2005 edition,
go to
www.microsoft.com/sql/prodinfo/features/compare-
features.mspx
As you evaluate potential uses for SQL Server Express 2005, note that you can
use it for all sorts of applications, from traditional, desktop-based rich client
software as well as browser-based solutions that are available over the Internet.
SQL Server 2005 Express is just one component of a larger collection of entry-
level products aimed at helping developers and hobbyists use Microsoft’s tech-
nologies to deliver powerful and flexible computing solutions. These products,
all of which are part of Visual Studio 2005 Express include the following:
Visual Web Developer 2005 Express
Visual Basic 2005 Express
Visual C# 2005 Express
Visual C++ 2005 Express
Visual J# 2005 Express
All these products work seamlessly with SQL Server 2005 Express. If you’re inter-
ested in taking advantage of these products, have a look at Chapters 19 and 20.
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Chapter 1: SQL Server 2005 Express Overview
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