MySQL vs. MS SQL: Quite often people ask Best MySQL Web Hosting what is the difference between MySQL and MS SQL. This article from Best MySQL Web Hosting will explain to you what the difference is between MySQL and MS SQL (Microsoft Server 2008).

Best MySQL Web Hosting has already answered the question what is MySQL in a previous article. Before we can compare MySQL and MS SQL, we must briefly answer the question, what is MS SQL?

MS SQL stands for Microsoft SQL Server. MS SQL is a database program designed by Microsoft that is part of the relational database management system. MS SQL was introduced to the public in 1989. Since then Microsoft has released nine versions of MS SQL with the latest being MS SQL 10, or SQL Server 2008.

MS SQL Server 2008 is directed towards data management organization. It allows a person to maintain their data at any place, any time. With a full detailed set of integrated features within MS SQL Server 2008, you are able to do more with your data, such as query, search, report, and analyze. In addition to that, you are able to use Windows PowerShell for added features.

Microsoft SQL Server 2008 has three main versions; Workgroup Edition, Standard Edition, and Enterprise Edition. Workgroup edition is the least expensive version at about $739.00 including 5 CALs. Standard edition is in the middle at about $1,849.00 with 5 CALs. The Microsoft SQL Server 2008 Enterprise edition is the top of the line version and will cost you about $13,969.00 with 25 CALs.

So now that we have a basic understanding of what MS SQL is, just what is the difference between MySQL and MS SQL? Well to start it off, MySQL is free! That's right, MySQL is an open source database program allowing it to cost you nothing. Another one of the differences is that MS SQL is designed by Microsoft so it typically will only support other Microsoft programs. MySQL will support almost all programs allowing you to produce an exact version of the website you wish to!

In addition, MS SQL servers are basically a proprietary storage engine using a Sybase derived engine. As compared to MySQL being an open storage engine with the a lot of choices for the engine. Microsoft Server 2008 does have a few more whistles than MySQL does, but unless you are creating a very dynamic web page, you won't notice it.

Overall, Best MySQL Web Hosting prefers MySQL over MS SQL. Because it is free, we feel that more people will benefit from it over MS SQL. We also feel that it is a lot less technical and more user friendly.

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