Seeder question: I can see that SQL Server 2008 offers no less than 7 editions (not counting the forthcoming SQL Data Services).
If I'm just getting started with MS SQL Server, how do I go about deciding which edition is the one for me?
asked
SQL Server 2008 Editions
It really depends on what you mean by "me." If by "me" you mean you personally, then I recommend getting a copy of the developer's edition of SQL Server. I believe it costs $50 retail. If you get the developers edition, you'll be limited on the number of connections, the size of server, and the size of databases, but you'll get full functionality of every single aspect of SQL Server. This allows you to develop against and learn about all the various possible options available to you through SQL Server.
If "me" means your business, then you simply need to evaluate the options available in each of the various versions to determine which ones you're likely to take advantage of in the near term. If you don't need all that the Enterprise version offers, get the Standard version or something else.
I guess it depends on what you mean by, just getting started with SQL Server, if you mean that you are just starting to learn it and want to get an understanding of it, I would recommend the Developer Edition, which has all the bells and whistles that are included with the Enterprise Edition. Alternatively, you could get your feet wet with the Express Edition which is the free version.
If on the other hand by deciding which version is for you, you mean as for implementing as a database for a business solution - that would really depend on the needs of the business.
