Let's wait and see how much performance degradation Oracle 8i brings. Oracle 8i may confuse and alienate database administrators seeking performance and stability. We're looking to NT, Index Server technology, middleware, and other products to efficiently handle much of what Oracle is trying to do directly within the database. That way businesses can pick or build the best tools for complementing the database. Oracle is even starting a division called Oracle Business Online to help software vendors build Oracle 8i-based applications that can be hosted and serviced for businesses.
Databases are really complicated things.
If the attraction of a universal server is easy to understand, it's also unquestionably hard to pull off. Oracle commands a lead over Microsoft in enterprise database software, whereas Microsoft commands platforms and file systems. The reaction at Comdex and other developments in the coming months should reveal whether these critical software categories have marriage potential or are best left separated. Find out how. 810, the high-tech dream machine.