Posted on June 17, 2009 at 3:30 PM

SQL Server is the MicroSoft's participation in the Arena of relational database management systems (RDBMS).

SQL Server is available in 4 editions : Express, Workgroup, Standard and Enterprise.

Well believe it - Microsoft is providing something for free : yes ! their lightweight edition SQL Server 2005 Express edition is a free download (in lieu of a bugging registration process, additionally Microsoft .NET Framework 2.0 is required). I downloaded it from here .

Installation (SQL Server 2005 Express edition)

Prerequisites : IIS, Current OS service Packs and Microsoft .NET Framework 2.0

You can connect SQL Server using the Microsoft SQL Server Management Studio which is bundled with the installation.
2 Types of authentication (Windows Authentication and SQL Server authentication) is possible to connect to the Database: