Difference Between SQL Server & Windows 2000 Server

Windows 2000 Server and SQL Servers are used for different purposes.

Windows 2000 Servers and SQL servers are two types of software platforms used to operate computer servers. SQL is a database server, and Windows 2000 Server is used for applications, file and print sharing.

SQL Server

A SQL (pronounced "sequel") server is a device that uses Structured Query Language to manage databases inside a database management system. It's sole purpose is managing, organizing, storing and retrieving information for other applications. Many applications use SQL as their method of data storage. A SQL server is only capable of accepting data function requests. Access to the data stored on a SQL server is usually done from a software "front end" running on another piece of hardware.

Windows 2000 Server

Windows 2000 Server is a version of the Windows 2000 Operating System that is designed to be used for application, web, print and file servers. It differs from a SQL server because it does not store a database, but instead runs the applications that typically connect to a SQL server to store their data.

Windows 2000 Server Advanced

It is possible to operate a SQL database using Windows 2000 Server Advanced, which is different than the normal Windows 2000 Server. It has more functions, and can support more RAM and processors. A software license for Windows 2000 Server Advanced is also more expensive than the basic software.

References

• CompTechDoc: Windows 2000 Server Introduction
• IBM: Structured Query Language (SQL)
• MySQL: The world's most popular open source database