MS SQL Server & SSMS

Software Description

Microsoft SQL Server is a relational database management system (RDBMS). It is widely used for data storage, retrieval, and management in enterprise applications. SQL Server supports structured query language (SQL) for database operations and provides advanced features such as stored procedures, triggers, indexing, and transaction management.

SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS) is a graphical user interface (GUI) tool used to interact with SQL Server databases. SSMS allows users to manage databases, run queries, and perform administrative tasks efficiently.

Access Instructions

Microsoft SQL Server and SSMS are only available for Windows operating systems.

Microsoft SQL Server

  1. Download: 
    1. Visit the Microsoft SQL Server Download Page.
    2. Choose the appropriate edition:
      1. Developer Edition (free for learning and development).
      2. Express Edition (lightweight version for small-scale applications).
  2. Installation: Follow the on-screen instructions to install SQL Server on Windows. See the Installation Guide for more details.

SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS)

  1. Download: Visit the Download SQL Server Management Studio page.
  2. Installation: Follow the on-screen instructions to install SSMS on Windows.
  3. Connect to SQL Server and Create a Database (Using SSMS):
    1. After installation, launch SSMS.
    2. Connect to the SQL Server instance using Windows Authentication (default) or SQL Server Authentication (if configured).
    3. Create a new database by navigating to Object Explorer → Right-click Databases → New Database.

Licensing and Cost Information

  • License Type & Cost:
    • Developer Edition – Free for non-production use, includes all SQL Server features.
    • Express Edition – Free for both commercial and production use, but with limitations (e.g., max database size of 10 GB, no SQL Agent).
  • Duration: Unlimited

Getting Help