Desktop Database

[shanawazcool]

I developed project in VB and used SQL server 2000 as database.
when I run exe it will definately require a database, but it is inefficiant
to install SQL server wherever I execute my project(on a single computer separately means I not talking about the connection string)
So I want my project so flexible that it should run at computer for that I have to make database portable that can move or copy anywhere.
Like Music Player WinAmp ,It store it configuration but do not require SQL or MS Access.
So finally I how can make my sql database portable.

[si_the_geek]

Welcome to VBForums

Thread moved from the FAQ forum, which is not the place to post your questions.

You do not need to install SQL Server every time you execute your project, only when you install it - however installing a full edition of SQL Server would take a long time (perhaps more than your program), and could be complex too.

There are two "light" editions of SQL Server 2005 that you can use, there is the Express Edition (similar to a full edition, but some features removed) and the Compact Edition (lots removed, does not support Stored Procedures etc). Both of these are free at Microsoft.com/SQL , and both support a kind of file based system.

I suspect the Compact Edition would be best for you, as the installation is very simple (you just add about 7 DLL's to your program installation), and the database is easier to transfer. The only issue is whether it supports the features you use (if you are only running standard SQL statements, it does).