Microsoft SQL Server is a RDBMS (relational database management system) created by Microsoft. It is used as a central location to save and obtain data needed for applications. It uses SQL (structured query language) for queries that store or retrieve data. SQL Server began in 1989 from the cooperation of Sysbase, Ashton Tate, and Microsoft, and at the time was very close to Sysbase SQL Server 3.0 for Unix. Sysbase and Microsoft later went in separate directions creating different SQL Servers, with Sysbase renaming its product to Adaptive Server Enterprise.

SQL Server is available in numerous editions for specific purposes. Some of these editions include standard, data center, enterprise, express, web, workgroup, Azure (cloud-based), compact, developer, fast track, and more.

Database terms, SQL

  • For more information about SQL Server, visit the Microsoft SQL Server website.