Learn Data Development

Whether a beginner or an expert, learning your training starts here. The documents below provide insights into the different data development technologies, while the selection guides on this page will help you find specific technologies of interest depending on your needs.

Data Development At-a-Glance (100 level)
A short article illustrating the relationships between the different data technologies.
Data Development Technologies Past, Present, and Future (100 level)
A comprehensive look at all of Microsoft data development technologies as they've been introduced over the last two decades.
Data Development GPS Video (from TechEd 2010; 100-300 level)
Introduces the development of data access technologies with guidance and demonstrations for using ADO.NET, Entity Framework, and WCF Data Services.
Guide to the Data Development Platform for .NET Developers (200 level)
Whitepaper that covers all facets of data development in .NET including current client- and service-based APIs, programming at a server level inside the SQL Server 2008 database, developing and testing a SQL Server database application, and future directions.

Choose by Technology

.NET Technologies

Entity Framework
Provides simplified and productive data access with less code than ever. Supports LINQ as well as access through a higher-level conceptual model rather than database structures.
WCF Data Services
Enables the creation and consumption of OData services for the web.
ADO.NET
The basic data-access technology for .NET, upon which the Entity Framework is built, supporting Microsoft SQL Server, OLEDB, and ODBC, and third-party data providers.
XML
The almost universally supported way of exchanging documents and data across applications and platforms.
Sync Framework
A comprehensive synchronization platform enabling collaboration and offline for applications, services and devices.
LINQ to SQL
A method to work with Microsoft SQL Server databases using LINQ. (Note that new applications are encouraged to use the Entity Framework.)

Database Technologies and Services

SQL Server Database Engine
The core service for storing, processing, and securing data.
SQL Azure
Use SQL Azure to move your database to the cloud.
SQL Server Compact
Build standalone and occasionally connected applications for mobile devices, desktops, and Web clients.
SQL Server Integration Services
Enables organizations to more easily manage data from a wide array of data sources.
SQL Server Reporting Services
SQL Server Reporting Services is a server-based reporting platform.
SQL Server StreamInsight
Enables developers to quickly implement robust and highly efficient event processing applications.

Native and Cross-Platform Technologies

SQL Server Native Client
For creating applications using native-code APIs (ODBC, OLE DB and ADO) to Microsoft SQL Server.
SQL Server Driver for PHP
Enables reliable, scalable integration with SQL Server for PHP applications deployed on the Windows platform.
SQL Server JDBC Driver
Provides database connectivity for applications written using Java.
Reactive Extensions (Rx)
Compose asynchronous and event-based programs using observable collections and LINQ-style query operators.

Future Technologies

Entity Framework Futures

New features being planned for future releases.
Data Services Futures

New features being planned for future releases.
SQL Server Developer Tools, "Juneau"

Learning Types

	Documentation in the MSDN Library Complete coverage of every technology, including CTPs.		Samples on MSDN Code Gallery Learn best through code? Visit here for an index of data development resources.
	How Do I Videos \| Pre-Release Videos No time to read? Check out our video sections.		Books Want to purchase a book? Look here for a listing of data development titles.
	Channel 9 Screencasts Watch webcasts from the convenience of your office.		Training Find training resources to help you learn how to program with Microsoft data technologies..
	Technical Articles If you're looking for tips to help you complete your task, check out our technical articles.		Webcasts On-demand and live webcasts from Microsoft Learning.