DB2 Express-C

DB2 Express-C, developed by IBM, is an exceptional choice in the realm of Development Tools, particularly in the Database Tools subcategory. The latest version, 10.5.400.191, continues the legacy of providing a robust and advanced database management system at no cost. It's a versatile choice for startups and small to medium-sized businesses due to its speed, security, reliability, and scalability. Notably, DB2 Express-C is free for developing, deploying, and distributing, eliminating the need to invest in expensive database solutions.

A key advantage of DB2 Express-C is its compatibility across multiple operating systems, including Linux, Unix, Windows, and now Mac OS X. This cross-platform support ensures that developers can integrate it with their preferred environments seamlessly. Moreover, it offers native storage technology called pureXML™, allowing for efficient and straightforward XML handling. This makes DB2 Express-C a strong contender for developers working in various programming languages, such as Java, .Net, Ruby, Python, and Perl.

Another impressive aspect is that DB2 Express-C is not a watered-down version of its commercial counterparts. Instead, it shares the same codebase, ensuring that users benefit from the full feature set without restrictions. This open approach, combined with a generous license, provides flexibility and freedom for users.

For those looking to download this tool, it's worth noting that other versions available include 10.5, and 9.7. The program is also known by aliases such as DB2 Express-C - DB2SERVERC. This variety in versions allows users to choose the one that best fits their needs while enjoying the consistent quality provided by IBM.

Pros:

• Free to download and use
• Cross-platform support (Linux, Unix, Windows, Mac OS X)
• Shares the same codebase with commercial editions
• Excellent for startups and small to medium-sized businesses
• Efficient XML handling with pureXML™

Cons:

• May have a learning curve for new users
• Limited community support compared to some other database tools

Overall, DB2 Express-C stands out as a powerful and cost-effective solution for database management, offering extensive features and flexibility at no cost.

You may want to check out more software, such as dotConnect for DB2, DB2 Run-Time Client Lite or EMS SQL Manager 2007 Lite for DB2, which might be similar to DB2 Express-C.