Re: Is Oracle 'cheaper' than SQL server?

sjudkins_at_christyind.com wrote:
>
> I am developing an Intranet application that will access a RDBMS. I can
> use Oracle or MS SQL Server. I have experience with both and I am on
> a limited budget, so I have decided to go with the 'cheapest' of
> the two.
>
> I will be using Win NT, Java, and Cold Fusion (database-web middleware).
>
> I can get MS SQL Server with a 5 user license for $1,345. Although, to
> connect a MS SQL Server to a "web server" you must buy the "SQL Internet
> Connector" (a piece of paper!) for $2,999!!!
>
> My question is how much would it cost to run Oracle the same way (tied
> to a web server)?? I would need a 5 user license (or less). Do I need
> to buy a product similar to Microsofts "SQL Internet Connector" from
> Oracle? How is their licensing structured for "Internet Databases"?
>
> Thanks,
> Shayne
>
> P.S. - We temporarily don't have access to a news server and I am using
> DejaNews to post this, so please respond via EMAIL to:
> sjudkins_at_christyind.com. Thanks again.
>
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Please note: I am a DBA and NOT a lawyer !!!

It was my understanding that in cases where you cannot accurately monitor usage (ie internet/intranet via cgi) that you would have to have a 32 concurrent user license per CPU on the server. They (Oracle) extend their licensing to include "virtual devices", so you cannot just purchase a single user license (even if one were available) and use a single userid to "funnel" all requests through it. I suspect that the "SQL Internet Connector" license document is MSs way of compensating for the virtual device aspect for Oracle. It looks as if the MS route might be cheaper up front (if cost is your only criteria), as based on my assumptions even if you went with Oracle Workgroup Server at 32 concurrent * $295 (list, last time I checked), you are above $9K before a discount.

Good luck! Received on Sat Sep 13 1997 - 00:00:00 CDT