Microsoft Releases SQL Server 2008

The latest edition of Microsoft's database software is aimed at improving data compression, scalability, and concurrent workload management.According to the company, the top new feature is the Resource Governor, which moderates the amount of CPU and memory applications use, in order to manage multiple workloads. In addition to new data compression and scaling performance features, other enhancements include new data types, better connectivity with third-party application such as Oracle's, improved integration with Office, and compliance-oriented management features. Microsoft says that SQL Server shoule support Windows Server 2008's new Hyper-V hypervisor within 30 days.

SQL Server comes in a number of versions, including the Standard edition and targeted enterprise, Workgroup, Web, and Developer editions, as well as two limited, free versions. Pricing is unchanged from SQL Server 2005.InformationWeek