Why using MS SQL Server rather than Access?

Q-Shop supports both Microsoft Access and Microsoft SQL Server databases out of the box, and unlike many shopping carts at no extra cost to you. Although Access is the default database, SQL Server is really the recommended option if you are serious with your shop. SQL Server is the enterprise database system from Microsoft, it is far more robust and scalable and provides much better performance.

SQL Server is a far more robust database offering better performance, scalability and security. Access will work fine with low or medium loads but if your site is successful it will get busy and performance could be an issue. The last thing you want is to turn your customers away!

Why using SQL Server?

• Higher performance (several times faster especially under load)
• Better scalability
• Performance doesn't degrade as quickly under heavy load
• Support hundreds of simultaneous users
• Provide a faster user experience
• Overcome the Access performance limitations
• Better reliability
• Remote access to the database using MS SQL Query Analyser and Enterprise Manager

To use MS SQL Server as your database you can either create it from scratch using the T-SQL scripts provided or alternatively migrate your Access database to SQL Server using either MS SQL Server Enterprise Manager's import utility or the Access migration wizard. The first option is recommended for new shops.

For sample instructions to use the import function see the import tutorial (the database used in the tutorial is an older version).

Ask your hosting service for their SQL Server support. QuadComm recommends activeservers.com.