Do you need a server to run SQL?

Can I use SQL without a server?

Your best option is to use an access database. You won't need to install anything on the machine it is virtually like using a flat file that can be queried like a database :) I think I would go with your solution for the time being.

Why do you need a server for SQL?

One of the most essential functions of SQL Server is to provide data to other software applications (clients). To interact with SQL Server databases and manage or query their data, you can use the Transact-SQL (T-SQL) language, an extension of the SQL standard.

Can I run SQL locally?

Yes, you can use Microsoft SQL Server 2008 R2 RTM - Express with Management Tools. If you want to run SQL Server 2000, find an old copy of SQL Server 2000 Developer Edition.

Do you need a server for a database?

If you have only one application that runs in one instance for the user, embedded solution (whether sqlite or some object storage) is usually OK. However if you have multiple instances that need to manipulate the database concurrently, you need to have a server to synchronize it.