Microsoft SQL Server 2000 For Dummies (For Dummies (Computers))

Microsoft SQL Server 2000 has become standard equipment in lots of organizations, largely owing to its relatively friendly user interface on top of its solid infrastructure. That user interface, however, can intimidate users who are new to the environment and lack the experience to interpret what they see. Microsoft SQL Server 2000 for Dummies decodes this top-of-the-line relational database management system (RDBMS) for the benefit of such novices, as well as for people coming to SQL Server 2000 from one of its competitors. Anthony Mann does a fine job of explaining not only administrative matters, but also issues of database design, Structured Query Language (SQL), and integration of SQL Server databases into larger information systems.

The instructional style in this book varies depending on the subject at hand. When explaining subjects that are mostly conceptual in nature, such as relational database structure, Mann relies mainly on text and bulleted lists (and perhaps not enough on diagrams, which can really clarify these topics). When covering areas that have more to do with the specifics of SQL Server 2000--running Data Transformation Services (DTS) imports and exports, for instance--he employs steps (with options and alternate paths explained) and screen shots of the user interface. --David Wall

Topics covered: How to set up and maintain databases under SQL Server 2000, with some instruction in relational database design and Structured Query Language (SQL) thrown in. Databases, tables, keys, foreign keys, basic Transact-SQL, stored procedures, triggers, and administrative subjects like backup, restoration, and distributed databases are all covered.