SQL (Structured Query Language) is a high-level language that hides particular relational database's implementation. SQL provides a standard database interface. Using SQL, your program is not stuck with one particular vendor's database management system (DBMS). Ideally, you can change from one DBMS to another without CHANGING your APPLICATION. In reality, HOWEVER, each vendor's interpretation of SQL is slightly different, so switching from one DBMS to another NORMALLY requires some work.

SQL is officially pronounced "ess-cue-ell," but most people call it "sequel." You use SQL to interact with relational databases. There are three main operations that you may want to perform with a database: database MANIPULATION, definition, and administration. We shall focus on database manipulation, that is, data retrieval and modification. The other operations database definition and administration, correspond to database creation and management, which most users are not in a position to perform.

SQL (Structured Query Language) is a high-level language that hides particular relational database's implementation. SQL provides a standard database interface. Using SQL, your program is not stuck with one particular vendor's database management system (DBMS). Ideally, you can change from one DBMS to another without changing your application. In reality, however, each vendor's interpretation of SQL is slightly different, so switching from one DBMS to another normally requires some work.

SQL is officially pronounced "ess-cue-ell," but most people call it "sequel." You use SQL to interact with relational databases. There are three main operations that you may want to perform with a database: database manipulation, definition, and administration. We shall focus on database manipulation, that is, data retrieval and modification. The other operations database definition and administration, correspond to database creation and management, which most users are not in a position to perform.