What is the difference between Standalone applications and Add-Ins?

What is the difference between Standalone applications and Add-Ins?

dbForge offers a suite of powerful MiniTools designed to streamline database development and administration. These tools come in two primary forms: standalone applications and add-ins, each catering to distinct user needs and workflows.

1. dbForge MiniTools for Oracle, MySQL, and PostgreSQL

These dbForge MiniTools are standalone applications designed specifically for Oracle, MySQL, and PostgreSQL databases. They are independent tools that connect directly to the databases, allowing users to perform various operations without relying on larger management systems.

Features:

  1. Direct Database Connectivity: These tools allow users to connect directly to Oracle, MySQL, or PostgreSQL databases.
  2. Autonomous Operation: They work independently and do not require additional software to function.
  3. Separate Installation: Installed separately on a workstation, these tools run autonomously.

2. Standalone Mini-Tools for SQL Server

In dbForge, Standalone MiniTools are also independent applications, primarily designed to work with SQL Server. These tools are installed on the workstation and are designed to operate independently. However, they can also be launched from within SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS) if the user has SSMS installed.

Features:

  1. Autonomous Operation: These tools work without needing other software to function.
  2. SSMS Launch: Can be launched from SSMS but continue to work independently.
  3. SQL Server Focus: Specifically designed for SQL Server users, focusing on SQL Server-related tasks.

3. Add-in Mini-Tools for SSMS

Add-in MiniTools from dbForge are tools that integrate directly into SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS) or Visual Studio (for SQL Complete). After installation, they become a part of the main program's interface and operate seamlessly within it.

Features:

  1. Requires SSMS/Visual Studio: These tools are add-ins and require SSMS or Visual Studio to function.
  2. Full Integration: Once installed, the tools are fully integrated into the SSMS or Visual Studio interface.
  3. Focused on SQL Server: Primarily designed to enhance the functionality of SSMS, making SQL Server tasks more efficient.

Note:

  1. SQL Complete is a full-fledged, standalone product that can be part of the dbForge SQL Tools package. It can also function as an add-in for SSMS or Visual Studio.
  2. Query Builder is included in the dbForge SQL Tools, but does not integrate with SSMS.
  3. Transaction Log is a standalone tool for SQL Server that does not integrate with SSMS or Visual Studio, and is not included in the SQL Tools package.