Moving Beyond MySQL - High End Database Solutions

As your site evolves and matures, it may outgrow the programs and services that you have come to rely on. This is a natural part of a site's or business's growth and development. MySQL is a great database wiht which to learn, and start your online business. However, if you find that you spend an increasing amount of time maintaining the database and its data than you do running the business, then it's time to look for a new solution.

Each of the systems outlined here present viable upgrade paths from MySQL. If you must use an open source solution, then you have a choice of MySQL or Postgre SQL -- and Postgre will allow your business to go further. If you can afford a commercial solution, I'd have to recommend Sybase and Oracle for Unix/Linux based Systems. If you're on a Windows NT/2000/XP server, then use SQL Server 2000, as you'll gain the greatest benefits from this solution.

Database Resouces

Before I go, here's a list of database resources from around the Internet that will help you develop your next site in the High-End database system of your choice.

DBForums: This site provides discussion on many different SQL based database systems. It includes all the servers mentioned in this article, and more.

Here are three online magazines that will allow you to keep up to date on the latest happenings in the RDBMS market, and help you make informed decisions:

• http://www.dmreview.com/default.cfm
• http://www.intelligententerprise.com/
• http://sqlwire.com/

Other downloads include:

• Postgre SQL - http://www.postgresql.org
• IBM DB2 - http://www-4.ibm.com/software/data/db2/udb/downloads.html
• Sybase ASE - http://www.sybase.com/detail_list/1,3691,2282,00.html
• Microsoft SQL Server - http://www.microsoft.com/sql/downloads/default.asp
• Oracle 9i - http://otn.oracle.com/software/products/oracle9i/content.html