New Local Database Mode Arriving in Next SQL Server

The next version of SQL Server, code-named Denali, includes a new relational database technology called LocalDB, which stores data on the local system rather than on a remote server. LocalDB can be used for line-of-business and third-party applications with complex data storage needs, without requiring a persistent connection to a server. LocalDB provides efficiency and security improvements over SQL Server Express, while offering compatibility with the full version of SQL Server. However, taking advantage of LocalDB may require some application changes, and the technology is not supported on versions of Windows older than Windows Vista or Windows Server 2008.

Updating SQL Express for Local Databases

Applications running on Windows often need to deal with large volumes of data that can’t be loaded into RAM, and applications for mobile devices may require replicating data from a server so that the application can be used while disconnected. An example might be an insurance claims application used for adjusters. Microsoft has offered several technologies to fill the local database role, including Access (a part of Office that uses a database engine formerly known as Jet), SQL Server Express, and SQL Server Compact.