What is SQL? Why it is needed

SQL (pronounced "ess-que-el") stands for Structured Query Language. SQL is used to communicate with a database. According to ANSI (American National Standards Institute), it is the standard language for relational database management systems. SQL statements are used to perform tasks such as update data on a database, or retrieve data from a database. Some common relational database management systems that use SQL are: Oracle, Sybase, Microsoft SQL Server, Access, Ingres, etc. 

 

Although most database systems use SQL, most of them also have their own additional proprietary extensions that are usually only used on their system. However, the standard SQL commands such as "Select", "Insert", "Update", "Delete", "Create", and "Drop" can be used to accomplish almost everything that one needs to do with a database. This tutorial will provide you with the instruction on the basics of each of these commands as well as allow you to put them to practice using the SQL Interpreter.

1. Allows users to access data in relational data base management system
2. Allows users to describe the data.
3. Allows users ti define the data in the data base and manipulate that data.
4. Allows to embedded with in other languages using SQL modules, libraries, per-compilers.
5. Allows users to create and drop data base and tables.
6. Allows users to create view, stored procedure, functions in a database.
7. Allows users to set permission on tables, procedures and views.

Features of SQL

1. Accepts SQL statements from file. It provides a line editor.
2. It provides format, iteration and file commands.
3. Format query design and display reports on the screen.
4. It supports control environment settings.
5. It access remote and local data base.

 Source: www.w3schools.com, www.sqlcourse.com