# Databases and SQL Server

Programs need somewhere to keep their data. You will learn what a relational database is, then meet SQL Server and the tool you will use to work with it, SQL Server Management Studio.

Updated: November 3, 2026

## [Introduction to Databases](https://www.ask-codey.com/courses/csharp-full-stack-bootcamp/topics/csharp-introduction-to-databases)

1. [What is a Database?](https://www.ask-codey.com/lessons/introduction-to-databases-what-is-a-database) (Novice): A database is an organized place where an application stores its information so it can manage it and find it again quickly.
2. [Why Do We Need Data Storage?](https://www.ask-codey.com/lessons/introduction-to-databases-why-do-we-need-data-storage) (Novice): Applications keep their data in a database to have it in one place, keep it accurate and secure, manage it quickly, and grow as the data grows.
3. [What is an RDBMS](https://www.ask-codey.com/lessons/csharp-what-is-an-rdbms) (Novice): A relational database management system (RDBMS) such as SQL Server stores data in tables of rows and columns, and links the tables with primary and foreign keys.

## [Using SQL Server](https://www.ask-codey.com/courses/csharp-full-stack-bootcamp/topics/using-sql-server)

1. [SQL Server Management Studio](https://www.ask-codey.com/lessons/using-sql-server-sql-server-management-studio) (Novice): Create the course's sample databases in SSMS, find your way around Object Explorer, and run your first queries.

Source: https://www.ask-codey.com/courses/csharp-full-stack-bootcamp/chapters/databases-and-sql-server