Microsoft SQL Server

Microsoft SQL Server Standard Edition 2022 is the latest version of the celebrated relational database management system developed by Microsoft.

Originally conceived in distant 1989, the latest generation of this database server can intelligently store and retrieve data requested by other software applications, with an incredible variety of tools and services that developers can utilize to adapt database use for their particular needs, from a small single-machine app data management to managing large internet platforms that are serving millions of concurrent users.

Download and install SQL Server 2022 for Windows PC today!



SQL Server 2022 is the fifteenth version of this database management software that was released in November 2021, with a scheduled support end date of January 2030. Its release mirrored the deployment of SQL 2016/17 which was made available only for 64-bit CPUs (leaving behind supports for x86), and additionally for the first time with support for ARM CPUs.

New features found in Microsoft SQL Server Standard Version include Big Data Clusters (service that leverages scalable HDFS storage pool, with data inputs from multiple external sources), upgrade of SQL Server database engine, SQL Server Analysis Services, SQL Server on Linux, SQL Server Master Data Services, and SQL Server Machine Learning Services.

The developers from Microsoft also worked hard on upgrading security and stability features, making it even more secure against various exploits. As of today, SQL Server is rated by professional external observers as the most secure database management software over the last 10 years.

Users can effortlessly query secured databases including Oracle, MongoDB, and Cassandra, without the need to physically copy or move data. The full package includes access to Azure Data Studio, Transparent Data Encryption, and Accelerated database recovery.

MS SQL Server Standard Edition 2022 is an expensive software package, but Microsoft offers several purchase options, from FREE access to their certified developers, lifetime purchase, per-core plans, and subscription tiers.

SQL Server Express edition: for development and production for desktop, web, and small server applications only.

SQL Server Developer edition: for development and test database in a non-production environment only.

What's New in SQL Server 2022

Ensuring Business Continuity with Azure
Achieve reliable uptime with fully managed disaster recovery in the cloud through Azure SQL Managed Instance's link feature, which continuously replicates data to and from the cloud.

Seamless Analytics on Operational Data
Gain near real-time insights by bridging the gap between operational and analytical data stores. With Azure Synapse Link, analyze all your data using both Spark and SQL runtimes in the cloud.

Comprehensive Data Estate Management
Overcome data silos by managing and governing your entire data estate with Microsoft Purview, ensuring visibility across all your data.

Leading Security and Compliance
Meet your security and compliance objectives with the database recognized as the least vulnerable over the past decade. Utilize an immutable ledger to safeguard data from tampering.

Superior Performance and Availability
Experience industry-leading performance and availability, enabling faster queries and ensuring business continuity. Accelerate query performance and tuning without code changes, and maintain smooth multi-write environments for users across multiple locations.

Features

Big Data Integration: One of the standout features is its seamless integration with big data technologies. It allows you to combine structured and unstructured data from various sources, including Hadoop and Apache Spark, making it easier to derive insights from a wide range of data types.

Enhanced Security: Security is paramount in any database system. It introduces multiple security enhancements, such as Always Encrypted with secure enclaves, to protect your data both at rest and in transit.

Performance Improvements: With a focus on performance, this version includes Intelligent Query Processing, which optimizes query performance by adapting to workload patterns and providing better indexing strategies.

Linux Support: The server extends its support to Linux platforms, offering more flexibility in choosing your preferred operating system.

Containers: You can now run SQL Server in containers, making it easier to deploy and manage your database instances in a containerized environment.

Machine Learning Services: It integrates Python and R for in-database analytics, allowing data scientists and analysts to build and deploy machine learning models within the database.

High Availability: It ensures high availability with features like Always On Availability Groups and automatic failover.

Data Virtualization: It enables data virtualization, allowing you to query data from various sources as if they were part of a single database.

User Interface

SQL Server primarily operates through a management studio, which provides a user-friendly interface for database administrators, developers, and analysts. The interface is well-organized, with a navigation pane on the left and a central workspace for writing and executing queries, managing databases, and configuring server settings. It offers a combination of graphical tools and a SQL code editor, making it accessible to both beginners and experienced users.

Installation and Setup

Installing the server can be a straightforward process. Microsoft provides detailed installation guides, and the installer itself offers step-by-step instructions. You can choose from various installation options, such as standalone, clustered, or as part of a high-availability group. Ensure your system meets the hardware and software requirements before installation, as SQL Server can be resource-intensive.

How to Use

Database Creation: Start by creating a new database or importing an existing one.

Data Manipulation: You can insert, update, delete, and query data using SQL statements. The SQL Server Management Studio provides a Query Editor for this purpose.

Security: Configure user roles and permissions to control access to your databases.

Backup and Restore: Regularly back up your databases to prevent data loss and perform restores when needed.

Monitoring and Optimization: Utilize the built-in performance monitoring tools to identify and resolve performance bottlenecks.

FAQ

Is SQL Server 2022 available for free?
It has multiple editions, including a free Express edition with limited features. However, more advanced editions come with licensing fees.

Can I upgrade from a previous version of SQL Server to 2022?
Yes, it provides tools and documentation to help you upgrade from older versions to 2022.

What is the difference between SQL Server and Azure SQL Database?
SQL Server is an on-premises or cloud-hosted RDBMS, while Azure SQL Database is a fully managed cloud database service. Both are based on the same SQL Server engine but differ in management and scalability.

Does SQL Server 2022 support cross-platform development?
Yes, it supports development on Windows, Linux, and macOS.

Can I use SQL Server 2022 for data warehousing?
Yes, it offers features like columnstore indexes and PolyBase, making it suitable for data warehousing scenarios.

Alternatives

Oracle Database: Oracle's RDBMS is known for its scalability and high-performance capabilities.

MySQL: An open-source RDBMS, MySQL is favored for its cost-effectiveness and ease of use.

PostgreSQL: Another open-source option, PostgreSQL, is highly extensible and offers advanced features.

MongoDB: If you require a NoSQL database for unstructured data, MongoDB is a popular choice.

Pricing

SQL Server 2022 offers different pricing models based on your business needs and deployment scenarios. Here are the key pricing details:

On-Premises Licensing

Enterprise Edition:

• Per Core: $15,123 for a 2-core pack.
• Annual Subscription: $5,434 per year for a 2-core pack.

Standard Edition:

• Per Core: $3,945 for a 2-core pack.
• Server License: $989.
• Client Access License (CAL): $230 per user/device.
• Annual Subscription: $1,418 per year for a 2-core pack.

Other Editions:

• Developer Edition: Free.
• Express Edition: Free.
• Web Edition: Pricing varies, available through hosting partners.

Pay-As-You-Go (PAYG) Billing via Azure Arc

This model is designed for flexibility, allowing you to only pay for what you use:

Standard Edition:

• Monthly Rate: $73 per core.
• Hourly Rate: $0.10 per core.

Enterprise Edition:

• Monthly Rate: $274 per core.
• Hourly Rate: $0.375 per core.

Key Features and Licensing Models

• Per Core Licensing: Suitable for large enterprises with significant workloads, providing flexibility in virtual and physical environments.
• Server + CAL Licensing: Ideal for smaller organizations, requiring a server license plus CALs for each user/device accessing the server.
• Virtualization: Enterprise Edition licenses all physical cores for unlimited virtualization, while Standard Edition requires per-VM licensing unless all physical cores are licensed.

System Requirements

• Operating System: Windows, Linux, or macOS
• CPU: 1.4 GHz or faster processor
• RAM: 512 MB minimum (more recommended)
• Storage: At least 6 GB of available hard-disk space
• .NET Framework: .NET Framework 4.6.2 or higher

Detailed requirements can be found in Microsoft's documentation.

PROS

• Powerful data management and analytics capabilities.
• Enhanced security features.
• Integration with big data technologies.
• Cross-platform support.
• Extensive community and support resources.

CONS

• Licensing costs can be high for certain editions.
• Complex for beginners without prior database experience.

Conclusion

Microsoft SQL Server 2022 is a feature-rich and versatile RDBMS that caters to a wide range of data management needs. Its integration with big data, enhanced security, and cross-platform support make it a strong contender in the database management space.

However, organizations should carefully consider their requirements and budget before choosing the right edition and licensing model. Overall, it continues to be a top choice for businesses seeking a reliable and scalable database solution.

Note: 180 days trial version.