Database help for a moron!

[Randeeb]

I'll be brutally honest if you don't mind...

I know exactly crap about databases, beyond the fact that they organize info in a low level manner unseen by the user / creator of the database. Beyond that...it's all a black hole. What I want to do is dabble with my own "locally hosted" forum for work use. Here are a few of the questions that I need help with...

What would I use to write the database?
Would SQL be a good place to start?
Is there a free linux version that is comparable to MSSQL?
What would I use to design the front end? VB.net / perl?
Where would I find help with such questions?

Any help, educated and constructive inputs, would be greatly welcomed and appreciated.

 

[beer]

Originally posted by: Randeeb
I'll be brutally honest if you don't mind...

I know exactly crap about databases, beyond the fact that they organize info in a low level manner unseen by the user / creator of the database. Beyond that...it's all a black hole. What I want to do is dabble with my own "locally hosted" forum for work use. Here are a few of the questions that I need help with...

What would I use to write the database?

SQL, the Structured Query Languiage. A Text editor works, but there are several programs out there that help you build 'queries', aka, commands to talk to the database and extract information .

Would SQL be a good place to start?

SQL is simply a language, in the same way C++ is. It's just a structured way to query any modern database. There is Microsoft SQL Server, Oracle, postgresSQL, and the favorite, mySQL.

Is there a free linux version that is comparable to MSSQL?

MySQL Open Source and fast.

What would I use to design the front end? VB.net / perl?

PHP is perfectly integrated with mySQL And it's absolutely free and FAST too.

Where would I find help with such questions?

Take a look at SAMS Publishing, called 'Web Development with PHP and mySQL. It is your bible.

Any help, educated and constructive inputs, would be greatly welcomed and appreciated.

Buy the work. Well worth the money if you want to learn.