SQL Server 2008 R2, which ships this month, allows end users to tap into the powerful business intelligence features of SQL Server via tight integration with popular Microsoft applications like Excel.

On Tuesday Microsoft announced the release to manufacturing for SQL Server 2012 as well as an "evaluation version" for download, with general availability coming April 1. With this release, Microsoft ...

As you will see in this chapter, companies use SQL Server for many types of applications and on most tiers now. Gone are the days when you would second guess yourself choosing to use SQL Server over a ...