Secrets behind Microsoft’s move to make MS SQL an open-source resource – Decoded!

It turns out that Microsoft had become a remarkable example of the drastic changes forced by the open-source revolution. After conquering the world of proprietary software market for years, Microsoft steps down from its predominant proprietary ways slowly and steadily. Be it the declaration of Microsoft .NET as an open-source or making Xamarin, a free resource for everyone, it is evident that the time had come for the software giant to join the open-source club. With that note, let us discuss the earnest intentions of Microsoft bringing the SQL Server to open-source operating systems, Ubuntu, and Red Hat Enterprise Linux.

Strengthening of Azure happens to be the core reason for Microsoft to port SQL Server to Linux. Yes, the days where Windows remained profitable are through! Now, Microsoft’ Azure and server applications are the cash cows. But contrasting this merit, one in four instances of Azure happens to be the Linux operating system. Thus, creating a supportive and consistent data platform for Linux had become an alarming need for Microsoft. Eventually, this new move influences the scope of MS SQL and could attract more open-source enthusiasts to learn Microsoft SQL Server and its features.

"Microsoft Azure is growing rapidly and is reported in the same group as traditional server products (SQL Server is up, Windows Server is down). Collectively, that pair is at the top of the list." Said Ed Bot, a leading American Technology Journalist. The head of Microsoft’s Cloud and Enterprise business, Scott Guthrie also stated that "This move will enable SQL Server to deliver a consistent data platform across Windows Server and Linux, as well as on-premises and cloud."

Though the need for data consistent platform was mentioned as the reason, many critics challenge the intention. They say that with Linux being already supported by Oracle Database 12c, MariaDB, MySQL, and PostgreSQL, there is no shortage of servers in Linux to manage relational database management systems (RDBMS).

But the truth is revealed while the CTO of Microsoft Azure and cloud platform, Mark Russinovich told that "It"s obvious, if we don"t support Linux, we"ll be Windows only and that"s not practical.” He also mentioned that one in four Azure instances are Linux and this number keeps growing in a steady phase.

To conclude, the techies can expect the SQL Server to be available on Red Hat Enterprise and Ubuntu and it was designated as a standalone server application for these Linux systems. However the reasons and rumors keep revolving around the industry, one cannot deny the incredulous impact of open-source policies. And, the Microsoft cannot escape the tidal wave and slowly become an open-source company. Perhaps, it would not be a surprise anymore to witness an open-source operating system from Microsoft!