Release of SQL Server 7.0 Desktop Engine (MSDE)

Name: Release of SQL Server 7.0 Desktop Engine (MSDE)
Start: 1999-01-01
Location: Redmond, Washington, USA

The first iteration of a free, redistributable version of the SQL Server engine, though without management tools.

Significance

MSDE served as the direct technological precursor to SQL Server Express, establishing the concept of a free SQL Server core for developers, despite its usability challenges.

Key facts

Date: 1999-01-01
Type: release
Location: Redmond, Washington, USA