>Jeff,
>
>I think i'll play with MySQL to learn basics but you may be right. Probably will tell client to go with MS SQL. I am gathering info first before I attempt the conversion.
>
>Thanks,
>
>Bill

Yes, I guess playing with MySQL won't hurt that much. However, you could download a free version of MS SQL Server and later purchase the Standard version of MS SQL.

I work with both MySQL and MSSQL. I strongly prefer MSSQL.

Again, I've had horrible backup and restore problems with MySQL where the bin log refused to restore. I know you don't know what a "bin log" is, but it is critical in your restore process. I don't have those kinds of restore problems in MSSQL.

Also, I can restore MSSQL database of 30 GB in about 15 minutes. For an 8 GB database in MySQL it takes an hour.

I'm writing a lot on backup and restore here because I suspect you will become the accidental DBA who will be responsible for backup and restore in the event of an accident. I would urge you to focus on MS SQL and specifically https://ola.hallengren.com/ for some great utilities for backup. Also, check out Brent Ozar's SQL Blitz and his columns on how to configure your SQL server to best practices.

Maybe Kevin Goff might add something about MSSQL vs. MySQL and backup and configuration.