Which DBMS should I use?

Question

I'm a C# beginner and I've always used Access as a DBMS when programming with VB, but now I'd like to start using something else.

Which free DBMS should I pick, that is also easy to use for a beginner?

Thanks :)

Answer 1

Microsoft SQL Sever Express is good choose, I think :) .

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Answer 2

Thanks a lot :)

I just installed it, but I feel like an idiot now because I don't find how to open it or create a database :(

All I have in my start menu is "Import and export data", "SQL Server Configuration Manager", "SQL Server Error and Usage Reporting", and "SQL Server Installation Center".

None of those provides a way for me to create a database, add tables and info to it...

Am I being too dumb or is my installation corrupt in some way?

Answer 3

You need MSSE.

http://social.msdn.microsoft.com/Search/en-US?query=management%20studio%20express%202010%20download&ac=8

Make sure you use the correct version for your version of SQL. 

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Mark the best replies as answers. "Fooling computers since 1971."

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Answer 4

Personally, I like to use something like System.Data.SQLite .  It's free. It's a single dll when you distribute your app.  It does have vs integration and support for the Entity Framework if you want it...  I personally, have my own framework that I use - but, it was developed before ef :) 

I personally, use SQLite Administrator to create and design the databases.

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Tom Shelton

Answer 5

Hello ex-lawyer!  In the summer of 2009 (a very short time ago) I went through exactly what you are going through now.  Jumping from Access to SQL Server is not necessarily easy, but the rewards are worth the efforts.  Check this out:

http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/en/details.aspx?FamilyId=C243A5AE-4BD1-4E3D-94B8-5A0F62BF7796&displaylang=en

You have to determine if you have a 64-bit machine or a 32-bit machine, then choose the appropriate file, download it, and install it.

You may find that this is helpful too:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Yq75lkXtL4

Post back if you have specific questions.