Microsoft SQL Server is a relational database management system (RDBMS) developed by Microsoft. As a database server, it primarily functions to store and retrieve data as requested by other software applications. These applications can run either on the same computer or on a different computer across a network, such as the internet.
Being a relational database management system means two things. First, the data within SQL Server is organized in a 'relational database.' Second, SQL Server is a complete 'management system,' not just a database. SQL, which stands for Structured Query Language, is the language used to manage and administer the database server.