Microsoft Corp. released an update to its SQL server software on Monday, marking the second major update the software giant issued for its enterprise grade database.

The Service Pack 2 (SP2) patch will update customers using the firm's SQL Server 2005, adding compatibility with its new Windows Vista and Office software lines, as well as expanding its virtualization capabilities.

SP2 delivers customer-driven improvements and new features that align with our data platform vision,' said Ted Kummert, a corporate vice president at Microsoft. SP2 realizes a step forward in enabling organizations to bring the business intelligence capabilities of SQL Server 2005 directly to end users in the tools they use every day.

In addition to interoperability with its other software lines, the Redmond Wash.-based firm promised enhanced virtualization ability as well.

One Virtualization allows companies to run multiple operating systems on a single server. Microsoft said that it is expanding its usage policies with the new update, allowing unlimited virtual instances on servers that are licensed for SQL Server 2005 Enterprise Edition.

Customers can download SQL Server 2005 Service Pack 2 immediately from

http://www.microsoft.com/sql/sp2.mspx

Microsoft Software