Hi everyone,
I'm new to SQL Server and I want to discover it from the beginning. Can anyone tell me what are the 'cut-downs' of the Express Edition compared with the Full Released Edition? Is there any disadvatage for security & user management? And is the Express Edition free forever or just in a certain period (like Visual Studio .Net 2005 Express)?
Thanks.

For Features by edition see: http://www.microsoft.com/sql/prodinf...-features.mspx

For Licensing information including Express (which is forever free to my knowledge) see:
http://www.microsoft.com/sql/howtobuy/default.mspx

maitthm,

I am new at SQL Server too. Basically if you check the link that the other replier posted, you should see the different features. As for me, I am little uncomfortable using Express Edition because all the books explain assuming you have the Full Released Edition. I am studying with "Beginning SQL Sever 2005" and I don't think Express Edition has the 'Reporting Service' feature. So I am not sure if I should buy Standard Ed. or Prof. Ed.

Eric

see my blog at http://derekcomingore.iuplog.com/def...sp?item=158658
sql server 2005 express with advanced services DOES INCLUDE REPORTING SERVICES and when coupled with the sql server 2005 toolkit (aka business intelligence studio), you are enabled to create, deploy, and view RS reports in the local environment!

If you wish to learn SQL 2005 via the express edition (which I would recommend if your wanting to just learn sql 2005), you should use this Wrox title "SQL Server Express Edition Starter Kit"
Derek