February 9, 2011 at 7:47 am
Hello to all - I'm going to be signing up for an online class in SQL which requires me to have access to a DMS - as I'm browsing the 'net I'm getting the feeling that there's a "free" or "evaluation" version of SQL to run on a desktop that I would be able to use for this class. Is that true? Anyone know anything about SQL Server Evaluation Edition or other similar products?
February 9, 2011 at 7:54 am
SQl server express is a free version of sql server with limitations in features.
or you could purchase SQL server developer edition (for about $50) which is an identical version to Enterprise Edition but can not be used in production.
February 9, 2011 at 12:52 pm
I'd favor going for the Developer version over SQL Express. There is just so much you can't do with SQL Express that is a standard part of SQL Server. If you're trying to learn SQL Server, that's the best way.
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February 9, 2011 at 1:48 pm
Evaluation Edition is Enterprise and stops working after something like 6 months.
Express Edition is free, but has limits on what it can do. If the class covers features it doesn't have, you'll have to fall back and punt to Eval or Dev.
Personally, I keep a current copy of Dev Edition for my own use and proof-of-concept work.
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February 9, 2011 at 1:59 pm
I fully agree with Grant and GSquared. With the nominal price of about $50 you have a full SQL server with ALL the features to develop and test on. There is A LOT that is not included in Express, things like SQL Agent.. When I am developing I am thinking about what versions of SQL I am targeting and may chose to go a different path to target a lesser version to hit a wider audience. But I want to have everything on the table at the start, something that just isn't possible with Express. $50 vs. free is a no brainer, spend the money, it is an investment in your future. you simply give up too much in express.
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