Getting started with Databases...

Hello everyone.
I wanted to start a thread here to ask how I can get involved with Database development, Administration etc...

I am currently a Network and Sys Admin for a company. However, recently I have taken a very strong interest in Databases. I find them very intriguing and fascinating. It has really made me think a lot about learning more about databases...

So here is what I wanted to ask.

What would be the best way for me to start learning database development, administrationg, data mining, data warehousing and the whole nine yards?

I've considered buying some books, but what books would be good to get me started? I've made some bookmarks on learning some tutorials, but I'm looking for me.

Does anyone have any suggestions or recommendations on where I can start looking?

Also, the databases I am interested in learning are the following:

Oracle, IBM DB2, MySQL, Postgress

...at least for now..

I would very much appreciate it if someone can point me in the right direction.

Thanks.

Tarballed

1. try sql course in databasejournal
2. download evaluation software like
mssqlserver, mysql, oracle
3. There are so many websites where you can find RDBMS basics. Thats the first step.
4. Post questions in databasejournal when you are having questions

http://www.mssqlserver.com/tsql/
http://www.mssqlserver.com/replication/primer_p1.asp
http://www.mssqlserver.com/faq/

Thanks MAK. I really do appreciate it.

I will check out and read all of the tutorials that I can find.

Also, is there one particular database that stands out over the others? Maybe one that is in higher demand in the market?

My current company wants to learn more about databases, development and administration. Which is find with me as I find it something very exciting to learn. In fact, I would not even mind switching to databases as being my specialty.

With that in mind, any other suggestions? Aside from the links posted as well as reading tutorials and so forth, possibly study a certain DB or shoot for a certification?

Thanks again!

Tarballed

It depends. if you need more features with inexpensive licensing MS-SQL Server.

If your client can afford then Oracle.

If your client cannot afford both then MYSQL.

If your client wants a popular (diminishing) then go for sybase or ingress.