If you want your web site to store and retrieve data from a database, your web server must have access to a database-system.
If your web server is hosted by an Internet Service Provider (ISP), you will have to look for SQL hosting plans.
Some common SQL hosting databases are MySQL, PostgreSQL, SQL Server, and Oracle.
MySQL
MySQL is a popular database software for web sites.
MySQL is known for speed, reliability, and ease of use.
MySQL is an inexpensive alternative to the expensive Microsoft and Oracle solutions.
Tip
Read our MySQL Tutorial .
SQL Server
Microsoft SQL Server is a popular database software for database-driven web sites with high traffic.
Microsoft SQL Server has a strong integration with other Microsoft products, powerful tools, and robust security features.
Oracle
Oracle is a popular database software for database-driven web sites with high traffic.
Oracle is known for extreme scalability, performance, reliability, and security.
Oracle has expensive licensing.
PostgreSQL
PostgreSQL is a popular database software for web sites.
PostgreSQL has advanced features, high standards compliance, extensibility, and strong data integrity.
PostgreSQL is open-source and free.
Tip
Read our PostgreSQL Tutorial .