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Introduction to Microsoft SQL Server


Microsoft SQL Server Setup


Introduction


Microsoft SQL Server is an application used to create computer databases for the Microsoft Windows family of server operating systems. It provides an environment used to generate databases that can be accessed from workstations, the web, or other media such as a personal digital assistant (PDA).

We will provide lessons and other topics on how to use Microsoft SQL Server 2008.

In order to follow the lessons on this site, you must have access to a computer in which Microsoft SQL Server 2008 is installed. To start, you must have a computer that runs an appropriate operating system. If you are just learning, which is assumed for all lessons on this site, you can use a Microsoft Windows XP Professional, Microsoft Windows Vista, or Microsoft Windows Server 2003.

To use Microsoft SQL Server, you must install it on a computer. You can install it on Microsoft Windows XP Professional, Microsoft Windows Vista, Microsoft Windows Server 2003, or Microsoft Windows Server 2008. This means that you should take care of the operating system first.

Before installing Microsoft SQL Server 2008, make sure you have installed all service packs on your operating system. If you plan to use Microsoft Visual Studio 2008 to create Microsoft SQL Server 2008 databases, you should install Microsoft SQL Server 2008 first, then install Microsoft Visual Studio 2008.

Introduction to Security



One of the main concerns of a database is security, and this is central to Microsoft SQL Server. Security is exercised at different levels: in the room where the computer(s) is(are) located (the computer(s) that hold the server application (Microsoft SQL Server) and the computer(s) that will use(s) the databases (clients)) and the people who will use all these resources.

When it comes to the room that houses the computer on which you will install Microsoft SQL Server, you should make sure the room can be locked at any time and only a few selected people have access to it. For maximum security, you should also put the computer in a locked closet.

Creating an Administrator Account



To actually install Microsoft SQL Server 2008, you must use a user account that has the ability to install it. If you are using Microsoft Windows XP or Vista, you should use the Administrator account or create a new account that has administrative rights. The account you will use must also use/have a password. In Microsoft Windows XP Professional or Vista, to use the Administrator account, assign a password. Alternatively, after logging in as Administrator, create an account that has administrative rights.





source : http://blogs.msdn.com/sharepoint/default.aspx