Choosing SQL Server version for MOSS 2007

It is not readily apparent, however, what version of SQL Server is the best version to
house the SharePoint databases on. Multiple editions of the SQL Server product support
SharePoint 2007, including the following:

. SQL Server 2005 x64 Enterprise Edition
. SQL Server 2005 x64 Standard Edition
. SQL Server 2005 x32 Enterprise Edition
. SQL Server 2005 x32 Standard Edition
. SQL Server 2000 SP3a (or higher) Enterprise Edition
. SQL Server 2000 SP3a (or higher) Standard Edition
. SQL Server 2005 Express Edition

Choosing between these options is not an easy task, but a few key factors should drive
the decision process. These factors are as follows:

1. Is there an existing SQL Server instance that can be used? If so, it might make sense
to reuse the existing investment, assuming that it has the necessary capacity.
2. Does the hardware support 64-bit computing? If so, it is ideal to use 64-bit SQL
2005 software.
3. Are advanced redundancy and high availability options needed? If so, the Enterprise
Edition of SQL is necessary.
4. Is there any reason why the environment cannot use SQL Server 2005 over SQL
2000? If not, it is best to use the new version to take advantage of the new components
and scalability.