title: Which database system should I use?
body: <p>I have been doing quite a bit of research trying to figure out which database system would best suite my needs, but I need a little guidance. I am writing a <code>VB.Net program</code> that keeps track of inventory, to be used by small businesses. I will be using a client server type model, with 1 computer on the network acting as a server, the rest clients. The avg number of client computers will probably be 2-5 or so. The most would be 10-15. Right now I am using an Access DB stored on a network Hard drive, but that way is slower and not very stable. Access was the first DB for me to learn how to program with so that is why I am using it now, but I know I need to change that going forward. </p>
  
  <p>Requirements:</p>
  
  <ul>
  <li><p>I want the installation process to be easy and simple because these businesses will have no IT Dept. Database server needs to be installed along with program installation.</p></li>
  <li><p>Items and customers will be continuously added, so database size limits concerns me a little bit, as I don't want to have problems later on when the database size gets maxed out.</p></li>
  </ul>
  
  <p>Here is what I have gathered about the following DB types:</p>
  
  <p><strong>Access:</strong> What I use now. file based db. not intended for multiple users using 1 DB. </p>
  
  <p><strong>MySQL:</strong> Open source but seems distributing with program requires licensing, so this is out. I wish this was an option, but I need free.</p>
  
  <p><strong>SQL Server EXPRESS 2005/2008</strong>: No licensing, also 2008 R2 has a 10gb limit. I am leaning towards this for now. Seems to be easiest integration with VB.Net &amp; Visual Studio. Prerequisites are available in Visual Studio (for SQL Server 2005) so SQL server will get installed during program installation.</p>
  
  <p><strong>SQL Server CE:</strong> file based db. maybe not the best choice for client/server setup? Might not be any better than how I use Access now. Correct me if I'm wrong.</p>
  
  <p><strong>Firebird:</strong> I see other programs are using it in a client/server type setup, but it looks like a file based db? Also looks like support for vb.net + firebird is scarce, which scares me. No limits though, which would be awesome.</p>
  
  <p>I've done tons of research, but I still don't know which is best for my situation.</p>