Meeting high expectations, Microsoft has started tweaking the Linux version of its SQL Server with some major improvements. The software giant has released a new SQL Server vNext that brings various performance enhancements uplift the experience.
The version 1.1 of SQL Server vNext community technology preview (CTP) is the first update to the preview that was launched in November. This package includes computed column support for memory-optimised tables and indexes and enables natively compiled modules to support CROSS APPLY operator and all JSON functions. Also, Microsoft has brought string functions such as CONCAT_WS, TRANSLATE and TRIM and bulk access options like BULK INSERT and OPENROWSET(BULK….).
“SQL Server vNext represents a major step towards making SQL Server a platform that gives you choices of development languages, data types, on-premises and in the cloud and across operating systems by bringing the power of SQL Server to Linux, Linux-based Docker containers and Windows,” Microsoft wrote in a release note.
The early-release of final SQL Server additionally expands the database presence across some major new Linux platforms. These include Red Hat 7.3 and Ubuntu 16.10. Further, there are plans to add SUSE Linux Enterprise Server support in the coming future.
The public release of SQL Server will debut on Linux sometime in mid-2017. In the meanwhile, you can test the database on your Linux system by installing the latest vNext preview.
