Microsoft Access, is a very useful database management system, both for small personal projects, and to host databases for small and medium-sized companies, being a very outstanding feature of it, that you do not need to be an expert to start. to use it
Currently, there are other database management systems that are similar in operation to Microsoft Access and what are they compatible with different operating systems, having the possibility to choose between those that are free or paid, then we will show you the 15 Best Alternatives to Access:
#1.- Apache OpenOffice (Base)
As a first alternative, we will talk to you about Base, which, is a database manager that is part of the OpenOffice suite. Its operation and features are based on the same Microsoft Access source text, so there are no marked differences.
OpenOffice Base is a free program that works with a graphical user interface and you can do a lot of work in it. However, it has several limitations, for example: it does not have some functions such as data organization through frames and the possibility of sharing your work with other users.
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#2.-Axisbase
This database system is ideal for businesses because rather than building a database from scratch, you will likely need view the evolution of this. When you want to obtain detailed reports, you can request them from anywhere, just by accessing their website.
One of the limitations is that before using the Axisbase system, you will need to document how it works, since works as “building blocks” that are often somewhat complicated to understand; but if you spend enough time to understand the developer’s explanations, this won’t be a problem.
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#3.- Brilliant Database
It is a fairly intuitive system that will allow you to create forms, queries, reports, scripts, among many others, where you will be able to work comfortably with any data. One of the things that strikes us the most is that It has an interface almost the same as Outlook, in the form of a tree with a folder and has a capacity of up to 1.5 TByte.. You can obtain this system in two possible ways: first, through its trial version or by purchasing its license that costs 79 US dollars.
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#4.- DB Browser for SQLite
For those new to working with databases, this alternative is very good, since this system simplifies work by having to organize the data, working from sheets that are very similar to those of Excel. DB Browser for SQLite is available for Windows, macOS, and a variety of Linux versions. Also, one of the advantages it offers is that you will be able to merge several sheets, import and export data from files and issue queries and searches.
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#5.- Firebird SQL
It is also a database system that is free and compatible with Linux, Windows Mac, Solaris operating systems and a variety of Unix platforms. It is easy to install and its performance is very good, being able to handle databases larger than 500 GB. On the other hand, one of the drawbacks is that does not allow remote connections and also, it does not have temporary tables nor does it allow integration with other systems of databases.
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#6.- Glom
This tool is free and open source, with which you will have the opportunity to generate detailed reports of your work, consult data through searches, among other functionalities.
Glom is recommended, mainly, for small projects, such as: simple tables, contact list, product list, among others; Well, this is a software that is not as complete as Microsoft Access. works perfectly with Windows and Linux, but for Microsoft devices, there are no new updates.
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#7.- Kexi
This other alternative to Microsoft Access is an office software that includes several editing applications, both for graphics, photos and more. Kexi is only available for the Linux version and also It is highly recommended for small projects..
One of its advantages is that Kexi supports other database servers very well, such as dBase, MySQL, MS SQL Server, among others. This program it is much easier to understand than Microsoft Access when designing a database, storing and processing data, executing queries, etc.
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#8.- LibreOffice (Base)
LibreOffice is the direct competitor of Microsoft Office and speaking specifically of LibreOffice Base, which is one of its data management components, this it is open source, cross-platform and completely free. In addition, you can find it with versions for Windows, Linux and Mac versions, being compatible with Access, MySQL, PostgreSQL and Adabas D files.
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#9.- Microsoft SQL Server
With this alternative, you do have guaranteed compatibility with Access, since has also been designed by Microsoft. You will not have major inconveniences to work with Microsoft SQL Server, because this server, in addition to accepting type language JavaScript, HTML and PHP; You will not require great experience to start using it.
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#10.- MongoDB
It is characterized by being a NoSQL type database, with modern application developers and a high level of productivity, oriented above all to open source documents, also known as the “database of giant ideas”. However, it should be noted that some users have commented that MongoDB requires the investment of time to be able to code and learn the handling of this
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#11.- My Visual Database
Its interface is easy to understand and handle, so you can add the databases you want, create tables and forms, among other features. In short, this alternative is complete and very reliable to use, allowing you to include text boxes, counters, buttons, objects, and more. It has a cost of 99 dollars and you can get it directly from their website.
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#12.- MySQL
This is also one of the best alternatives to Access, as its features include: it is special to develop complex databases, it is free, open source, tasks can be automated, it has high performance due to its scalability, among others.
It is important that you know that to handle this system, you must handle and have extensive knowledge of HTML5, CSS, among others. One of the drawbacks is that does not have compatibility with files made in Access.
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#13.- nuBuilder Forte
With nuBuilder you will work online using MySQL, so you will have the opportunity to work on any project and to be able to give it continuity later from anywhere and from any computer. You can purchase its free version or the Pro version, at an affordable price.
It is ideal for those who are just starting out in the world of databases, since it also includes a informative video series and assertive documentation, so that users know how to use it in the best way.
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#14.- Oracle Database
It is a system that manages databases and is owned by Oracle Corporation, a distinguished platform that offers the easy handling of large amounts of information, as well as also its storage in a cloud.
To give you an idea, large companies like Coke Y Burger King, they make use of Oracle Database to manage their databases. As for prices, you can check them directly on their website, although you can also experience its trial version.
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#15.- PostgreSQL
With this alternative you will be able to carry out your work comfortably and then export it to Access or other recognized programs. One of its peculiarities is that for database design, you have to do from objectsso it is intended for specific users.
It also has frequent updates, and once you know how to use PostgreSQL, you can work from its website, where you will start structuring the data you require.
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What is Microsoft Access?
Also called MS Access, Microsoft Access is a Database Management System (SGBD) which is included in the Microsoft Office suite of programs. Similar to its companion Microsoft Excel, Access also allows you to view and edit data, with the difference that the latter it is much more powerful because you can handle a larger amount of data at the same time.
This software allows you to work with practically all types of databases, counting for it a quite attractive interface, flexible and also intuitiveso working in Access will be really easy once you learn how it works and gain experience using it.
What is Microsoft Access for?
This software is used so that users can organize in a fast and effective way a large amount of data of any kind, as well as manage the resulting information and store it to access it (such as the name Access refers) when you so require.
It is highly recommended that you use Microsoft Access in small and medium business database management projectsnot being recommended for large companies because the latter usually have a large amount of data that Access may not have the capacity to cover.
How Does Microsoft Access Work?
Microsoft Access works like a typical database: it allows you to create multiple databases, and then that important information will be store in the form of different tableswhich you will have the opportunity to “relate” to each other, according to your requirements.
Also, you can edit the database at any time that you already made, this in order to meet some need of a client, for example. Microsoft Access works for track sales or orders of a product in small and medium-sized companies, and is also used by many users to update music collections, among many others.
You have two options to start working on your database: start from scratch or use the premade templates available in the software and work on them. On the other hand, we will immediately show you what are the main elements that Microsoft Access has and how to use them:
- Boards: as we mentioned before, all data is stored in the form of tableswhich bring with them a series of functions.
- queries: with this function, as its name indicates, you will be able to get timely information about some entry inside some table, which is very important especially if the database contains countless entries.
- Forms: These are linked to the tables and is a more practical way to start entering data, ensuring that you are entering the correct data in the correct location. You can include buttons, text, images and much more in these forms.
- Reports: that you have the opportunity to customize them according to your needs, using the data you most want and placing graphics, colors, among others. The function of the reports is to show friendly and readable results for all users.
In conclusion, Microsoft Access is quite complete and can easily cover the demands of any project that includes the creation and management of a database, being also useful in small and medium-sized companies that need keep track of inventories, customers, addresses, etc..
Download Microsoft Access
You have two possibilities to acquire Access, the first one is getting the Microsoft Office package, which includes Word, Publisher, PowerPoint, Excel, Outlook, and Access; and the second, getting it regardless through the official Microsoft page (https://www.microsoft.com/es-ww/microsoft-365/access)
If you choose the second option, you can also choose between getting a free trial or buying the license right away, for both business and home. In any case, the free trial is a good alternative for users who want to know if this tool will be right for them, before deciding to buy it.
How to Install Microsoft Access?
For the installation of Microsoft Access, you must first verify if your operating system is up to date. Too, you need to own a Microsoft Office program (CD or downloaded file) or try the free version of Access from the Microsoft page, through the following procedure:
Step #1.- Head over to the official Microsoft website
The first thing will be to go to the official Microsoft page and proceed to search in the box for the word “Access”. You can also skip this step and click the following link (https://www.microsoft.com/es-ww/microsoft-365/access) which will take you directly to the site.
Step #2.- Sign in to Microsoft
You will be prompted to sign in to your Microsoft accountwhich you can accept or click the “No thanks, maybe later” button.
Step #3.- Start the installation
Automatically, the installation will start, so you must wait several minutes until this step is complete.
Step #4.- Restart the computer
Then you will most likely be prompted to restart your computer, so access this action and wait a few minutes.
Step #5.- Make sure it has been installed
Finally, to ensure a successful installation of Access, you can try looking for that keyword in home button search engine or in the applications section, where they appear in an orderly manner.
Advantages of Using Microsoft Access
#1.- Easy to use✔
The Microsoft Access system is easy to understand and manipulate, both for beginners as the most experienced in the field of database management, which means that it is not necessary to have programming knowledge.
#2.- It has predesigned templates✔
With these templates, you have the advantage of working on them and adapt its characteristics or edit them according to your purposes You will advance work!
#3.- Share and archive✔
You have the possibility share your database with other users in a single file and also archive them on other media.
#4.- Efficient tools✔
With Microsoft Access you can easily automate processes, create and manage data, request reports, analyze the data set, update existing records, error help system, among others; that in general, are easier to do compared to other database management systems.
#5.- Does not require internet✔
Being an office database management system, you will not need to be permanently connected to the internet to start doing a database or give it continuity.
Disadvantages of Using Microsoft Access
#1.- Limited space per file✘
The size of each database made cannot be larger than 2 GB per filea disadvantage for users who need to handle a large amount of data.
#2.- Limited performance✘
When there is ten (10) users connected to a database simultaneouslyin performance it tends to decrease or crash, so it is recommended to use Access only for light databases.
#3.- Some procedures can be cumbersome✘
For example, perform mathematical calculations and design tables and reportsit can be somewhat cumbersome or difficult to do, so it is convenient to have knowledge of database programming.
#4.- The query is usually slow✘
To perform “Queries” of the database, these can take a long time to give you the expected results, since re made to the global file.
#5.- It is only available for Windows✘
If you have an operating system other than Windows, such as Linux, Mac, Solaris, etc., unfortunately you will not be able to have Access, since it is not compatible with these.
Thank you very much for joining us until the end! We hope you have enjoyed and learned from this article on the 15 Best Alternatives to Access. Stay with us on this blog and find out many good and interesting things! Have a great day!