Should I learn SQL?

[BZeto]

I've noticed many network engineer jobs seem to require some knowledge of SQL and databases. Is SQL something I'll most likely need to learn or at least get a basic grasp of in this field?

Also, what would be the best way to learn it? Just pick up a book? What about for hands-on experience?

Thanks

 

[Nothinman]

I can't think of a reason that a pure networking guy would need to know any SQL. Maybe voice stuff because IIRC some of the older Cisco stuff had a SQL backend.

 

[jlazzaro]

I'm with Nothinman...as a network guy ive never had a need to use SQL. I do a lot of CallManager / Unity too...

Not saying its useless, but it shouldnt be a requirement.

 

[RebateMonger]

Most of my exposure to SQL has been in the areas of backup/recovery. Most SQL books focus on programming, which is really of not much interest to networking/server folks.

If you need/want hands-on experience, get an appropriate SQL book, set up a virtual server and load in a SQL trial version. You DON'T want to learn hands-on with somebody's production database.

Years ago, I had a policeman friend who helped his department "clean up" their dBase files. After he was done, he was never allowed to touch a police-department server again. After he was done, Charles Manson had a clean record. 😉

 

[Old Hippie]

Years ago, I had a policeman friend who helped his department "clean up" their dBase files. After he was done, he was never allowed to touch a police-department server again. After he was done, Charles Manson had a clean record.

Send him over. I've got a few with my name on 'um I'd liked cleaned! :laugh:

 

[BZeto]

Thanks for the input!