Software giant Microsoft has announced that more than 450,000 downloads have been recorded, to date, of the newly-launched version of SQL Server 2008.

According to the Microsoft, SQL Server 2008 is only major database that includes comprehensive, integrated functionality for data management as well as advanced business intelligence out of the box.

Speaking in Malaysia during the TechEd event in Kuala Lumpur, which attracted more than 3,200 participants, Microsoft Asia Pacific general manager, Server & Tools, Chris Sharp, said that the database management system provides new capabilities. These include support for policy-based management, auditing, large-scale data warehousing, geospatial data, and advanced reporting and analysis services, including help organizations with BI needs.

Sharp said that, with the strong growth in partner downloads of SQL Server 2008's Community Technology Previews (CTPs), more than 75 large-scale applications already in production and some 1350 applications being developed by nearly 1000 ISVs on SQL Server 2008, customers and partners are excited about the capabilities now available in SQL Server 2008.

SQL Server is a key component of Microsoft's Application Platform, a suite of products and technologies designed to help customers build, run and manage dynamic business applications.

Strong growth expected for Microsoft in BI market, say analysts.

REad MOre @ IT World