Microsoft has released the latest version of SQL Server to manufacturers.

The latest release of the database management platform will be known simply as SQL Server 2008 and will be offered for the same price as its predecessor.

The new SQL Server will sport auditing tools and policy-based management support and large-scale data warehousing. The company is touting the new release as faster and easier to manage.

"SQL Server 2008 is the only major database that includes comprehensive, tightly integrated functionality for data management as well as advanced business intelligence out of the box," said Ted Kummert, corporate vice president of Microsoft's data and strategic platform division.

"By offering a complete solution, we save customers time and money and allow them to focus on deriving the most value from their data assets."

Microsoft plans to offer SQL Server 2008 in several different formats, including versions specifically designed for developers, web servers, workgroups and a mobile version known as SQL Server Compact.

In addition to the manufacturer's release, the company is making trial versions available for download on its MSDN and Technet services.