There are two versions of SQL Server, and both are relational database management systems (RDBMS). An RDBMS stores data in a series of tables that are related to each other in a variety of ways. Because few assumptions are made as to how the data relates, an RDBMS can present data in many different configurations.
Sybase SQL Server is an older database management system on which Microsoft’s SQL Server is based. In 1996, Sybase began naming new releases of its program Adaptive Server Enterprise to avoid confusion with Microsoft’s product.
SQL Server is an alternative to MySQL and Microsoft Access.
Functionality
Microsoft’s SQL Server is most often used for small-to-mid-sized databases, although its use with large databases is increasing. With SQL Server, you can create a database for Web applications and manipulate the data within it.
Level of Difficulty
Because SQL Server is a well-documented RDBMS, you can learn some of the simpler functions with a little research.