A Dummie question!

Sorry, I know that my question doesn't fit, but, what's the difference between SQL and mySQL? where can I find a good forum for beginers that I can ask my questions?! Like what kind of SQL should I start? Is SQL Server a good start for me? Should I have Windows Server or NT to install SQL Server on my comp? and .... :D

Structured Query Language is just that, a language, implemented in most major databases

MySQL is an open-source(ish) SQL database, like most DB's it has its own interpretation of the SQL language with some additions to the language and some unsuported features.

MySQL is x-platform so it runs on win32 & *NIX whilst MSSQL-server is win32 only. MSSQL server is though a more fully featured true RDBMS unlike MySQL which lacks some advanced featues.

What language do you develop in and on what platform ?? if win32 only then MSSQL server or MySQL are options (one cheaper than the other:))... if you intend to step away from the dark side and use *NIX for your web-applications then MSSQL server is not going to be an option.

for web-type work MySQL is popular and for good reason, again though it is not a true RDBMS so it depends exactly what you want to do with it.

Thanks for your answer firepages, actually I'm starting to learn PHP! ( I coudln't find a good free source yet! ), because of that, I would say that I can not use SQL even if I learn it ( for now of course), and I'm going to use Linux, so, I think MSSQL isn't the best choice for me as you said, but what do you suggest for a beginner? I mean a person who just wants to start? I have the SQL Server at hand, but I've heard that it's not going to work in winXP, coz it's not a server windows, is it right? I can't afford to buy a server windows, so, what should I do in case it's right?!

Originally posted by ConfusedOfLife
I'm starting to learn PHP! ( I coudln't find a good free source yet! there's a LOT of info if you go here http://www.php.net/manual/en/