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 New to Server 2008 R2 to Start Learning

Author  Topic 

kiqueman
Starting Member

1 Post

Posted - 2013-05-03 : 01:29:31
Here is a dumb question. I just bought SQL Server 2008 R2 to begin learning it on my home PC. I bought it just to learn it, not to use it as a business. Do I need a server connection to get data for tables? I am not connected to any server.

Is there a way to download data and create tables for practice?

Meaning, do I have to be connected to a business server? or can i just use it and connect to some website that I can download tables/data.

Thank You,
New Kid on the Block

bandi
Master Smack Fu Yak Hacker

2242 Posts

Posted - 2013-05-03 : 02:18:55
You can download sample databases for practice by using the following link
http://msftdbprodsamples.codeplex.com/releases/view/93587

--
Chandu
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djj55
Constraint Violating Yak Guru

352 Posts

Posted - 2013-05-03 : 09:31:38
You can use a desktop for a SQL Server but you need RAM. More is better. I run one at work (8G RAM 64bit system) and the only time I have problems is when I run some heavy use processes.

djj
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James K
Master Smack Fu Yak Hacker

3873 Posts

Posted - 2013-05-03 : 09:52:44
What package did you buy that got you SQL 2008 R2?

If you buy something like SQL 2012 developer edition http://www.amazon.com/SQL-Server-Developer-Edition-2012/dp/B007RFXQAM it comes with a database engine and the developer tools. So you can have a database server on your computer and access it and work with it from your computer. Like djj55 said, if you are going to do any heavy lifting, you will need a beefy box.

Alternatively, if your objective is learning, you can get started without spending any money by downloading Express edition, which is free to use. That also has database engine and client tools (download express with tools or express with advanced services) http://www.microsoft.com/en-us/download/details.aspx?id=29062
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