SQL 2008 Express or Standard?

[Edu-IT]

Our LA have just contacted me about the migration and I'm wondering, which version of SQL would be better to use? They use Express (Free) but I've read this on the forum:

Express will run it (unless your DB is bigger than 4GB) but may slow down under the additional user load as it is limited to 1GB of cache memory and one CPU core

 

That would suggest that the Standard edition is better? We're a secondary school with approximately 10 users always using SIMS.

 

Any advice would be appreciated!

[creese]

I wouldn't go for express in a secondary. It's okay for primary phase.

[matt40k]

If you're using lesson monitor, def get standard.

 

Just remember, it's really easy to upgrade from express to standard in SQL2008.

[timzim]

Since you say there are only 10 people using SIMS I'd suggest you probably aren't using Lesson Monitor. In which case use Express and see how you go (since it's free). If you find access is slow and/or your server is not coping then upgrade. No point shelling out cash if you don't need to.

[PhilNeal]

I agree with timzin but would encourage you to look at how you could get more benefit from SIMS by putting it in the classroom.

[K.C.Leblanc]

And you need SQL 2008, NOT SQL 2008 r2.

 

I know of a school who ended up rebuilding their SIMS server after making that mistake.