How to Learn SQL Server Online

If you’re just starting to learn a new skill, you can find dozens of tips and resources online; learning SQL Server is no different. SQL Server is a relational database management system (RDBMS) created by Microsoft to support a range of analytics and business intelligence applications and transaction processing. This system is widely used in the corporate IT sector to retrieve data requested by other applications. If you’ve always wanted to learn SQL Server, there are plenty of options at your fingertips. From free tutorials to live classes, your options are outlined here so you can decide how to learn in a way that works best for you. 

What is SQL Server?

SQL Server is a relational database management system (RDBMS) created by Microsoft. The data contained within an RDBMS is stored in tables similar to the columns and rows in a spreadsheet. Like other RDBMS software, SQL server is built on top of structured query language (SQL), the programming language most commonly used to communicate with relational databases. This database server’s primary function is to store and retrieve data that other software applications request. This data may run on the same computer or be stored on a computer across a network.

SQL Server was created to compete with Oracle databases and MySQL. It supports the standard SQL language ANSI SQL. In addition, SQL Server also comes with T-SQL, or Transact-SQL, its unique implementation of SQL. This Microsoft proprietary language offers additional capabilities, such as exception handling, declaring variables, and stored procedures. The main interface tool for SQL Server is SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS), which can support either a 32-bit or 64-bit environment. When Software Developers write business apps that store information in databases, they frequently work with SQL Server to look after the databases instead of writing code to perform this task. This helps speed up the process of writing database applications, making them cheaper to build and ensuring that they are more secure, reliable, and scalable.

Read more about what SQL Server is and why you should learn it.

What Can You Do with SQL Server?

SQL Server has many uses for those tasked with managing and storing information in relational databases. It supports core operations in analytics, transaction process, and business intelligence. Any information on the server is stored in the relational database. However, the system comprises more than a database; it also includes a management system. 

Microsoft SQL Server is especially useful in the business sector. The database stores and manages a variety of business information. This system also facilitates data sharing by computers in the same network, which can increase reliability. Not only that, but SQL Server can also improve the speed at which data is processed, which makes it easier to execute large operations. In addition to creating and maintaining databases, SQL Server also analyzes data through SQL Server Analysis Services (SSAS). It creates reports using SQL Server Reporting Services (SSRS). It executes ETL operations using SQL Server Integration Services (SSIS).

Another benefit to working with SQL Server is that it provides a range of features for advanced performance. This system has encryption features, as well as transparent data compression. In addition, users don’t need to modify programs to secure and encrypt their data. SQL Server also includes efficient management tools for permission and access controls that can secure sensitive business data.

Live Online SQL Server Training

Live online SQL Server classes are an excellent learning option for individuals who prefer studying in the online environment but want access to an instructor. This type of training includes many of the perks of in-person study, such as real-time instruction from an industry expert, hands-on training, and in-the-moment feedback. Also, it provides learners with the additional flexibility of completing lessons from their home or office space. Live online study is a good option for those unable to commute to campus for regularly occurring meetings due to personal or professional commitments but still value the interactive component of live instruction. Although this training format may require that learners take off work to attend class, it is ideal for those who want to study SQL Server but may not live near a major city or need to balance study with work travel. 

Live online SQL Server classes are currently available from many top educational providers. Noble Desktop’s SQL Bootcamp provides instruction on how to work with PostgreSQL. Participants in this hands-on class receive instruction on topics such as how to write SQL queries, join tables, aggregate data, and extract valuable insights from datasets. Noble also has an SQL Server Bootcamp, which provides instruction on working with Microsoft SQL Server. Both bootcamps provide participants with the option of a free course retake for a year so students can revisit course material.

In addition to the courses offered by Noble, other live online SQL and SQL Server training is available from other educational providers. NYC Career Centers SQL Bootcamp is a beginner-friendly, three-day program designed for those with little or no prior SQL experience. This course introduces SQL and working with relational databases, as well as some coding fundamentals. Students also learn about writing SQL queries, exporting data, and building control structures. For those seeking intermediate-level instruction, WeCloudData’s SQL Fundamentals is available. This class prepares students for a career in data analytics, data science, or data engineering. Advanced training is available in Certstaffix Training’s SQL Querying: Advanced. This one-day course teaches students how to work with Microsoft SQL Server to create advanced joining tables and write advanced queries.

On-Demand SQL Server Classes

If you are a learner who prefers studying online but can’t commit to regularly scheduled class meetings, on-demand SQL Server courses are designed with your needs in mind. Unlike live online classes, which meet at regularly scheduled intervals, self-paced SQL Server study occurs entirely on your own time and at your own pace. Lessons can be paused, rewound, and rewatched as often as necessary, facilitating note-taking. Since content such as videos and tutorials is pre-recorded, you can access it from any location with an internet connection. This flexible learning format is ideal for those with busy schedules who still want to get started learning SQL Server but can’t attend class meetings. Another advantage of asynchronous learning materials is that it’s often a much more affordable learning option than in-person or live online study. Some content is even available for free.

Although asynchronous SQL Server training is an effective learning format for some learners, there are a few drawbacks to this learning format. Since the content is all pre-recorded, you won’t be able to ask questions as you watch. This may make it challenging to work with more complex relational database concepts. Because so much online instructional material is available, finding the most accurate and up-to-date content can be challenging. SQL Server can be difficult to master, especially for those new to relational databases. For this reason, a self-paced course may be a good starting point, but for those looking to master more advanced skills, classes taught in real time may be a more effective learning option.

Free Intro Courses & Tutorials

If you want to learn SQL Server but aren’t ready to dive into an entire course, the good news is that you can get started learning SQL Server for free online. In this free Intro to SQL course offered by Noble Desktop, you’ll receive an overview of SQL Server and examples of what you can do with this versatile querying language. This hour-long tutorial offers general SQL information which applies to all the major SQL flavors.

In addition to Noble’s free SQL resources, other top educational providers also have free content about SQL Server. Udemy’s SQL Server in One Hour teaches participants essential database concepts. Participants also learn how to install SQL Server and create a sample database. Udemy also offers a range of free SQL-related videos, such as Introduction to Databases and SQL Querying, Advanced Databases & SQL Querying, and SQL For Data Analytics. For those who want to learn how to work with T-SQL, Microsoft SQL Server’s dialect, edX’s Querying Data with Transact-SQL is another free learning opportunity. Participants receive instruction on how to make tables and add data to them, as well as how to perform SQL queries.

Read more about free SQL Server videos and online tutorials. 

Comparing Online Methods with In-Person Learning 

If you’re interested in learning how to use SQL Server, the good news is there are excellent learning options available in the in-person and online formats. The following paragraphs will examine each learning option so you can decide which suits your needs.

In-person SQL Server study is an excellent option for those who want an engaging, interactive learning format. These courses are led by an expert instructor available to offer support and guidance, answer questions, and ensure that you understand challenging concepts. Not only do these courses provide perks such as help building portfolios and immediate feedback, but they also provide a way for students to connect, which can facilitate networking. Those who attend in-person classes also have access to a computer lab stocked with the most up-to-date software. However, one consideration for in-person study is that it requires commuting to and from campus for class meetings, which may require additional time and money.

Live online SQL Server classes are a great alternative if you want access to a live instructor but don’t want to battle rush-hour traffic to attend class meetings. These courses provide the same instruction as in-person study, with hands-on training from expert instructors, and allow students to ask questions in real time. Since you can complete all coursework remotely in the live online learning format, participants can complete lessons from the comfort of their homes or offices. A critical consideration of live online study is that it requires students to attend regularly scheduled meetings. This may mean taking time off work to learn SQL Server.

For those who need to balance SQL Server study with full-time work, family commitments, or travel, attending classes that meet in real-time may not be a viable option. Self-paced coursework is an alternative that lets you study SQL Server at any time of the day and from any location. Because the content is pre-loaded, you can watch it at midnight or on Sunday. It can also be paused, rewound, and rewatched as often as necessary to help with retention. Another benefit of on-demand SQL Server coursework is that it’s often a much more affordable study option than in-person or live online study; some content is even free from top educational providers.

However, self-paced SQL Server study doesn’t include access to a live instructor, so it is best for beginner-level study. Mastering more complex relational database skills may be easier in the live learning format. Another important consideration when selecting asynchronous SQL Server study material is that it can be challenging to know which is the most current and which is outdated.

Tips to Succeed when Learning SQL Server Online

Learning SQL Server in the online environment can be an extremely productive and beneficial experience. The following are some tips to help you get the most out of your studies:

• Start with the basics. If you’re new to SQL Server and RDBMSs, it’s best to begin your studies with beginner-friendly data concepts, such as how to retrieve and analyze data. Once you’ve mastered these fundamentals, you can move on to more advanced SQL Server topics.
• Create a quiet study space. It’s essential to have a quiet space at home or your office where you can complete coursework and connect for lessons (if they’re being delivered in the live online format).

• Reach out for help as needed. Live online study offers students access to an instructor in real time who can answer questions and provide guidance along the way. With self-paced coursework, however, learners don’t have an instructor on whom to rely. If you’re studying SQL Server in the asynchronous learning format, you may need to reach out to others for help with advanced topics. Whether you ask a former professor, co-worker, or even someone from the SQL Server Community, it’s essential to have support along the way.

• Maintain a study schedule. Some remote learners find it challenging to maintain a regular study schedule. After completing an online session, it’s important to schedule time for working on assignments and studying the relevant course material. Calendar apps like Google Calendar are great tools for keeping up with classwork and scheduling time to study. An additional benefit of establishing a SQL Server study schedule is that you can pace your learning over weeks or even months (for certificate programs) without tackling too much in any one week.

• Don’t over-commit. Just like in-person study, online SQL Server coursework can be demanding. It requires time to study throughout the week, which can be difficult to balance with other commitments like full-time work, family, travel, and other tasks. This is why it’s vital to approach online courses with the same mindset you would in-person study.

Learn SQL Server with Hands-on Training at Noble Desktop

Those who want to learn how to use SQL Server choose from a variety of excellent in-person and live online study options available through Noble Desktop. If you’re new to SQL Server and want to learn the basics, Noble’s in-person and live online SQL Server Bootcamp is for you. Participants in this program receive expert instruction about using MS SQL Server to locate information in databases using SQL queries. Students also receive instructions on joining tables, aggregating data, and filtering results. This class covers SQL Server and the free SQL Server Management Studio app. All participants have the option of a free course retake for up to a year after completing this bootcamp to revisit the material. 

Noble’s in-person or live online SQL Bootcamp is also available. This program prepares participants to use PostgreSQL. This hands-on class also teaches students to work with the free DBeaver app for exploring the database and executing queries. These concepts can be applied to other SQL flavors, such as MySQL and Microsoft SQL Server, with minor syntax changes.

If you want to browse Noble’s course offerings that provide SQL training, you can search for in-person and live online SQL courses. In addition to SQL Bootcamp and SQL Server Bootcamp, Noble also has courses such as the Data Science Certificate and Data Analytics Certificate, in which PostgreSQL training is provided. The content taught in these lessons can be applied to SQL Server.

Key Insights

• A variety of learning resources are available for those who want to study SQL Server online. Students can select live online coursework, which allows them to connect with an instructor in real time, or they can choose self-paced study options such as asynchronous, pre-recorded courses, videos, and online tutorials.
• Deciding which online study format is best for you likely will depend on factors such as your current work schedule and your ability to attend regularly scheduled class meetings.
• Studying online can be a rewarding experience for those who approach this study format with the right mindset. When studying SQL Server online, it’s important to maintain a study schedule, create a quiet study space, and pace out learning so that you start with the basics before moving on to more complicated concepts.
• If you want to learn more about SQL Server, Noble Desktop’s SQL Server classes are a great place to start.