The process refers to acquiring a specific version of a widely-used relational database management system. This free edition of the software is intended for lighter workloads and is commonly employed in development, testing, and smaller production environments. Obtaining the software typically involves navigating to the official vendor website, locating the appropriate installer package, and initiating the download process.
The significance lies in its accessibility, allowing individuals and small businesses to leverage database technology without incurring licensing costs. Historically, this edition has served as an entry point for developers and organizations to familiarize themselves with the features and functionalities of the broader database ecosystem. It provides a cost-effective means to build database-driven applications and gain experience with database administration tasks.