We all know that businesses cannot operate without data. Therefore, the importance of databases is increasing day by day. Microsoft SQL Server and ORACLE Database are the two most popular and widely used relational database management systems (RDBMS). Although both use SQL (Structured Query Language) language to manage data structures, there are differences in background operations.

Using language

Firstly, Microsoft SQL Server uses Transact SQL or T-SQL, while Oracle uses Procedure language PL/SQL. The main difference between the two is how they handle variables, stored procedures and functions. PL/SQL can be said to be more complex and more powerful. T-SQL, on the other hand, is simpler and easier to use.

Transaction Logic

Another difference between the two systems is that PL/SQL in Oracle can also group transactions into packages, which cannot be done in MS SQL Server. To expand on this topic, if MS SQL Server needs to update an entire recordset at the same time, by default SQL Server executes each command separately and it will be more difficult to make changes if any errors are encountered. On the other hand, Oracle groups them so it will be easier to undo the operation in case of an error.

Operating Systems Compatibility

Another difference between Oracle and SQL Server is the state of running in their operating system. It is supported by many operating systems such as Oracle, Windows, Linux, AIX, Solaris, OS X. SQL Server is supported by Windows and Linux.

Database Objects

SQL Server organizes all objects such as tables, procedures, views by database names. Users are assigned a login that is given access to a particular database and its objects. Also, in SQL Server, each database has a special, unshared disk file on the server. In Oracle, all database objects are grouped by schemas, which are a subset of database objects, and all database objects are shared between all schemas and users. Although shared, each user can be restricted to certain schemas and tables through roles and permissions.

Memory Management

MS SQL Server uses a general memory management. This means that the system cannot change the sorting or caching settings for better performance by the DBA (Database Administrator). Thus, human errors are prevented. In Oracle, on the other hand, memory sizing by DBAs is allowed. Although the correct sizing and efficient use of memory greatly improves database performance, it is also prone to misuse because the human factor is at play.

Interface and Resources

MS SQL interfaces are more user friendly. The system can automatically adjust statistical data and self-adjustment for user convenience. Also, MS SQL Server is easier to learn because of the abundance of resources on the internet. Oracle, on the other hand, is a bit more complex than MS SQL in terms of interface and it can be difficult to find resources on the internet at times.