MSDE and SQL Server

  • Thread starter Thread starter Mark A. Sam
  • Start date Start date
M

Mark A. Sam

Hello,

I am going to be getting my feet wet with SQL Server soon and trying to
prepare to convert the clients dbs. In looking for info, I came across the
MSDE and am not sure at this point whether if I need to know about it. Is
this used in leiu of SQL Server an in conjunction with it or both? Is this
like a DB engine inbetween Jet and SQl Server? I can't seem to understand
from the info on the Microsoft website.

Can someone, in a nutshell tell me what is relavant to know for this
transistion?

Thank you.

Mark A. Sam
 
the MSDE is a 100% compatible with sql server. that means you can develop
your application in ms-access along with the msde. Then, when the company
rolls out your application to 1000 users, it will run fine, and be a
reliable robust system that and large company would expect.

So, basically for a cases where you develop an application that needs sql
server, you can use the MSDE. The reverse is also true:

You can take a large complex system, and install it in a small branch
office with 4 or 5 users, and again not have to re-write the sql server
software. Since the MSDE is included in the office cd, it is free.

So, if you plan to upgrade, or write applications for sql server, the MSDE
is a perfect solution.

You can also use in ms-access what is called a ADP project. This kind of
ms-access application MUST use sql server. If you don't use a ADP project,
then you need to use the Enterprise Manger to set-up, and mange the sql
server. Note that the Enterprise manager works equally well with the MSDE,
or sql server.

So, MSDE is simply a small light weight version of sql server. It is by
design limited in performance, since it is free. The idea here is once you
outgrow it's ability (about 5 or 8 users), then you can upgrade to the real
version.

It is also useful where you need more reliability, or more security then
what JET offers. With the MSDE you can prevent employees from copying the
data files for example.
 
You're right on all. I'd add, for those without Enterprise manager, MsKb
325003 describes the OSQL utility with examples of how to create new logins,
passwords, create a new database, attach/detach databases, backup/restore...
etc.

Steve
 
Thanks guys,

So I can install MSDE at home where I am developing and simply transport
the updates using PCAnywhere to the client. That'll work fine.

God Bless,

Mark
 
Thank you Joan,

I installed the MDSE2000. Is there an advantage to changing to the Dev
version> More management tools?

Thanks and God Bless,

Mark
 
MSDE does not come with any tools. The Developer version comes with
Enterprise manager; in fact it has all the functions of SQLS Enterprise
edition.

I was simply following up to Steve's comment that without the Enterprise
manager, there is the OSQL utility. The price of the Developer edition
dropped from $499 (I think) to $49 just recently. At that price, you'll get
the full functionality of SQLS, including Enterprise manager - which you can
use against MSDE.
 
One problem... Microsoft forgot to change the price....lol. It is still
listed at $499.

God Bless,

Mark
 
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