LINQ

LINQ uses an SQL-like syntax to make query expressions well beyond the capabilities of embedded SQL as implemented in programming languages. That's because embedded SQL uses a simplified, streamlined syntax to add SQL statements to other programming languages, where there's no attempt to integrate such statements into the native syntax and typing mechanisms. Thus, you can't invoke native language structures such as functions in embedded SQL statements, as you can using LINQ, because it is implemented to use native syntax, structures, and typing mechanisms. Furthermore, LINQ may be used to access all kinds of data, whereas embedded SQL is limited to addressing only databases that can handle SQL queries.

Read more about LINQ: - The Microsoft Developers Network maintains a LINQ project site. - Also from MSDN, here's a chapter download, 'Introducing LINQ.' - SearchWinDevelopment.com offers a selection of resources related to VS 2008 and LINQ.

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