Does VS Express have everything I need?

Question

I have to ask this question because I never programmed, except in the introduction to the C ++ class, so my knowledge is extremely limited.

Here is my question. For me to write a C # program with SQL Server Express db, does VS Express have everything I need to get from start to finish? If not, what else do I need (and please be specific, because I'm new to all of this.)

Thanks.

Update: thanks to Malfist, I see that I can download full versions due to the fact that I'm a student. Therefore, I think this question is controversial.

Answer 1

It will contain enough for you to start , SQL Sever will not be included, you need to download it separately.

If you participate in a * .edu email account, you can download the full versions for free using DreamSpark .

Answer 2

In combination with an external source management tool (many free options), it has the minimum minimum required for most projects. To make sure that you are missing the function that you want for your project, you should check this page:
http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/zcbsd3cz(VS.80).aspx?ppud=4

Note that this is for Visual Studio 2005 - it looks like the 2008 version comparison page is missing.

Answer 3

At the introductory stage, yes, the express versions will have everything you need to start writing an application with a database backend. Check out the MS Introduction here . Limitations are also available here .

Answer 4

Together with Testdriven.net and tortoise svn you have everything you need to get started very well

Answer 5

In my experience, if you intend to develop programs for Windows, Visual Studio has the most comprehensive and advanced features you can ever find.

I also recommend that you take a look at Expression Design (Blend), this will help you create interactive applications (WPF) and works with VS Express (but it's not free).