MySQL or SQL server

I am currently developing a new website of which an extensive database will be a key component.
As I am discussing the project with a group of possible developers I am receiving very mixed messages as to whichdatabase type to use.
The database I have at present is a .dbf format with over 3 million records and this is updated daily.
I need it converted to a web based database that will be capable of handling thousands of simultaneous queries as the website will be receiving up to 15,000 unique visitors per day.
I have been advised by some developers that SQL server or a Microsoft platform like IIS are expensive, unstable, and difficult to administer and that MySQL would be the perfect web based database, however other developers have said that SQL server etc would be the only platform capable of handling the simultaneous querying and amount of records and multiple types of queries.
I wish to know what is the best tool to set up the web based database (MySQL or SQL server) that allows most flexibility and greater reliability and also which admin tool goes best with the recommended database type.


Thanks

Jeff Andrews

lol whoever told you that sql server was diffcult to manage must not have dealt with the server before. mysql is the equiv of a microsoft access database .mdb, it lacks tons of features that sql server has. it has replications and can handle transactions unlike mysql, but i will find comparison sheet and post the link on the two k.

http://www.open4success.org/usanet/index0166.html
http://www.mysql.com/information/crash-me.php


i know somebody else has more on it than me so i'll let them take over from here.

Hi, know this is a bit late but couldn't help having a bit of rant!

Not too sure 'bout previous advise but anyhow!?!

It really comes down to the amount of money you have to spend. A web server license for SQL Server is $8,000 with additional licenses on additional processors. Whatever, MySQL is completely free! Contrary to popular belief there is a replication model within MySQL and is simpler to use than SQL Server's. There are also many available GUI interfaces to make normally awkward tasks as easy as drag'n'drop. Don't get me wrong for sheer power and flexibility SQL Server is always my personal choice but you can integrate MySQL into a SQL Server environment and even have published SQL Server articles replicated to MySQL (all you need are the OBDC Drivers!!).
Never write anything off especially when it costs nothing.