Which SQL Server Training Format Is Right for Me?

SQL Server is a relational database management system created by Microsoft to store and manage information. This system is more than a relational database; it’s also a management system with various applications in the business sector. It allows users to share data files between computers in the same network and provides increased security measures to protect sensitive customer information. When comparing types of SQL Server training, there are many factors to consider. Everyone learns differently, and choosing the right kind of training is critical to your experience.

Keep reading to learn more about the different formats of SQL Server training, how they compare, and how to determine which is 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.

Training Formats for SQL Server

If you’re interested in learning how to use SQL Server, a variety of in-person and online training options are available. Those who want to work at their own speed may consider self-paced SQL Server content, such as videos, online tutorials, and blogs. For those who want to study in real-time but would rather not commute to and from campus for meetings, live online SQL Server courses are an excellent option. For extroverted learners who thrive in the traditional classroom environment, in-person SQL Server courses, bootcamps, and certificates are also available.

In-Person SQL Server Training

For those seeking an interactive, hands-on learning experience, in-person SQL Server classes are an excellent option. Students who attend in-person study have access to a computer lab loaded with the most up-to-date software and programs. This learning format allows students to connect with others studying SQL Server, which is an excellent way to network. Since in-person classes are taught by an expert instructor, students can ask questions as necessary, receive guidance on challenging concepts, and have support with professional portfolios and other job search materials. One important consideration of in-person study is that it requires commuting to and from campus for regularly scheduled class meetings, which may mean taking off work and can lead to additional transportation costs.

Noble Desktop’s SQL Bootcamp provides instruction on SQL concepts, such as working with PostgreSQL to gather information from databases, joining tables, writing SQL queries, and aggregating data. Noble also offers an SQL Server Bootcamp. This hands-on course teaches how to work with Microsoft SQL Server to write SQL queries, aggregate data, and filter results. Those who enroll in Noble’s bootcamps have the option of a free course retake for up to one year to revisit course material.

If you want to learn more about how to work with SQL Server, there are a variety of in-person SQL Server classes available from top educational providers. New Horizons SQL Querying Fundamentals: Part 1 is a beginner-friendly, one-day class that teaches students the basics of SQL querying. Participants learn how to execute a conditional search, organize data, and work with functions. General Assembly’s SQL Bootcamp: Learning the Language is also an introductory-level, one-day course. Participants in this workshop don’t need to have prior SQL experience. They receive instruction on how databases are organized, how to query data, and how to aggregate data using statistical functions. For those who want to learn how to work with relational databases, UCLA’s Extension Relational Database Management provides ten weeks of introductory-level instruction on data modeling, relational database technology, relationship diagramming, and data model analysis, among others.

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.

Free Online 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. 

Free SQL Server courses and tutorials are available from other top educational providers. The following are some learning options to help you get started working with this relational database management system:

• Databases: Relational Databases and SQL is offered by Stanford University. This two-week course is provided by edX and starts with an introduction to working with the relational model. Participants also receive instructions on how to query relational databases without relying on a specific language and how to use data definition language to design database schemas.

• Kaggle’s Intro to SQL is designed for those who have experience working with data science and Python. This three-hour, beginner-friendly class prepares students to use Google BigQuery to work with databases, as well as how to use SQL queries to gather information from large datasets. 

• SQLBolt offers Introduction to SQL. This course takes between two and three hours to complete and is designed to prepare participants to begin writing SQL as quickly as possible. This course covers core SQL concepts like creating tables and formulating SQL queries to find data within an existing database. 

• DataCamp’s Introduction to SQL offers another beginner-friendly learning approach to working with SQL. Participants in this four-hour course receive instruction on the general SQL syntax used in databases like MySQL, PostgreSQL, and SQL Server. Instruction is provided on how to aggregate functions to summarize data and select specific columns, filter rows, and group results.

On-Demand Classes

Another online learning format for SQL Server study is self-paced SQL Server coursework. Whereas live online classes require meeting at a recurring, regularly scheduled time, asynchronous study occurs entirely on your own. Video content and tutorials are typically pre-recorded. This means that they can be watched as often as necessary, as well as paused and rewound to facilitate note taking. The flexibility of this learning option makes it a good option for those who have to balance their SQL Server study with travel, work, and family commitments. 

While self-paced SQL Server study is a good starting point for those new to this field, since no instructor is available to answer questions, it can be challenging to learn complicated database skills in this format. This is why on-demand study is a good starting point, but to master more advanced concepts, it’s crucial to have access to an instructor.

Comparison of SQL Server Training Formats

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.

Is it Possible to Teach Yourself SQL Server?

Learning to work with SQL Server is an involved process that requires time and practice. If you want to start working with this RDBMS, you may consider teaching yourself how to do so. A plethora of online content is available to help learners get started working with SQL Server; some are even offered for free from top educational providers. These resources provide a low-stakes way to begin studying SQL Server and can help you decide if you wish to pursue further study.

While online tutorials and videos are a good starting point and can provide an overview of this system and some basic instructions, SQL Server is considered difficult to master fully. That’s why you may need more hands-on instruction as you progress to more advanced RDBMS concepts. In particular, individuals learning SQL Server for professional reasons may need an expert instructor to help them understand the concepts required for their job.

In addition, since there are so many online videos and tutorials posted about SQL Server, it can be hard to know which is the most up-to-date and accurate and which is dated or incorrect. This is another reason why having an instructor guide your learning process is helpful; they will communicate the most timely SQL Server information. For these reasons, in-person and live online coursework is recommended for those who wish to progress past introductory-level study.

How to Decide the Best Way to Learn SQL Server

Learning SQL Server is easier than ever because of the variety of resources available for both in-person and online study. Deciding which learning format is best for your needs will likely depend on various factors, such as your current work schedule, ability to commute for study, and ultimate goals in learning to work with SQL Server. 

For those new to SQL Server or without experience working with relational databases, free introductory-level classes are a good starting point in your learning path. Because they’re pre-recorded, Students can access self-paced online SQL Server classes from any location at any time. This flexible learning option is ideal for those who need to balance their studies with travel or other personal and professional commitments. These free classes provide an overview of SQL Server and basic, introductory-level instruction. This makes them a good place to start before embarking on more structured classes. However, since you won’t have access to an instructor to field questions, free intro classes are better for beginner-level instruction rather than trying to master more complex concepts. A variety of free SQL resources are currently available from Noble Desktop.

If you are interested in learning SQL Server to plug a skill gap or grow within your current career, enrolling in a SQL Server Bootcamp is a great way to learn to work with this relational database management system. These courses provide hands-on training from industry experts on topics like writing SQL queries, aggregating data, joining tables, and filtering results. Bootcamps such as those offered by Noble Desktop are available in-person and live online. This means that all participants have access to an instructor who’s there to field questions and provide support in real time. 

More rigorous study options are likely better for those who want to learn SQL Server to start a new career or pivot to a different industry. Certificate study in SQL Server or a related topic such as data science can provide intensive instruction on core database skills. Noble Desktop’s Data Science Certificate provides instruction on data science topics like using Python to analyze data, creating interactive data visualizations and machine learning models, and working with SQL to query databases. Although certificate study is the most expensive learning option, it comes with perks such as one-on-one mentoring, free course retakes, and assistance with the job search process.

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.