Let's get started with a brief overview of the features that are currently available with SQL and then skim over a brief history of SQL Server.
SQL Server evolution
What's available in the pack?
The main core of the SQL Server is a DBMS (database management system), which is used to store the data in the databases. Through time and the various versions available, Microsoft has added other services as a part of the SQL Server that we can deploy and use for other data-related tasks. While these services are not necessary and required for database operations, they add value to your installation.
Without specifying any particular order for the services that expand the feature set of SQL Server beyond plain DBMS, the...