SQL Server supports the proprietary T-SQL language for queries, stored procedures and scripts. T-SQL powers both ad hoc queries and automated administration tasks.
It allows SQL or Windows authentication and authorization through permissions on database objects. TLS encryption secures data in transit between clients and servers.
SQL Server can be deployed on Windows and Linux. Virtualization platforms and IaaS providers like Azure further increase deployment flexibility.
Often on-premises but Azure SQL Database and managed instances offer cloud options. Virtual machines allow hosting flexible SQL Server workloads.
Services like automated backup/restore, Always-On high availability, extensive auditing, performance tuning maximize uptime, security and performance.
For applications requiring enterprise-grade reliability, scalability and when leveraging other products in the Microsoft Azure stack, as well as for data warehousing and analytics workloads.
