MS SQL
 

Following on from my XP Updates thread, I find I have a plethora of MS SQL bits under 'add/remove'. I cannot recall why I installed them now - if I did. 'Scuse my ignorance, but what is the function of the MS SQL bits and pieces and do I actually need them at all/what do I need it for? Can they all be uninstalled and reloaded if it turns out I need them or will the world come crashing down at my feet?

SQL is a relational database program - MS makes a variety of different versions, from desktop "lite" editions through the full SQL Server monty. Very often it is used to underpin an application that requires relational object / data storage of some kind.

If you aren't using it, or aren't using any applications that use it, then you could un-install it all.

SD

- aye, Saab - there's the rub - I know what it is but not if I need it! It is knowing which "applications require relational object / data storage"! Is there an easy way to tell apart from uninstall and see? I assume from what you say that there is no core function in XP that requires it?

BOAC - without some complex sniffing, it is not usually easy to tell if some application is using MSSQL.

If you have an application that you store significant amounts of data in, such as client lists or financial application or something similar they *may* use MSSQL. Many don't, some do. Helpful, I know.

As for any dependence of XP on MSSQL then no, it is not a core requirement of XP and you can remove it with no impact on the operating system, alas we cannot tell what impact it would have on any of your installed applications.

One thing you could possibly do is search for *.MDF which will give you a list of the databases stored on your computer. Any database names, other than 'demo' might give you a hint as to what application is, or was, using MSSQL.

Good Luck!

Have a look for any SQL services. If you find any, disable them and see what happens - but make a note of what they are first, just in case!

If you uninstall SQL and anything is using it, you may well lose the data.

SB and C5 - thanks- will do those. I have a vague memory that at some point I was looking at playing with a home-based server, so maybe that is why I stuck it on. Does 'Access' need it?

SoundBarrier,

What's with all this searching of .MDFS and "complex sniffing" ?

Just download the management console (can't remember what it's called), fire it up ...and hey presto..... details of live databases at your disposal.

BOAC,

No. 'Access' is not a database by any stretch of the imagination, last time I checked it stores its rubbish in its own files.

Ta, M - all SQL services are sleeping and so far the world has not imploded.:)

Hey Mixture,

Searching for the MDF's is a lot quicker than installing and configuring the management console and getting it to work. I deal with MSSQL daily and even the newer versions can be a pain to get the management console to work if there is a slight quirk on your configuration (mixed-mode authentication etc.). If you have a list of MDF's you should be able to quickly tell if they're legit or not.