Cross-platform SQL Server Management for Developers Using VS Code
VS Code has become the go-to editor for cross-platform development, but many developers still struggle with SQL Server management outside Visual Studio. Julie Lerman shows you how to leverage VS Code’s SQL Server extension for seamless database development across Windows, macOS, and Linux.
AIU.ac Verdict: Perfect for developers wanting to consolidate their toolchain around VS Code whilst maintaining full SQL Server capabilities. The course assumes basic SQL Server knowledge, so complete beginners might need foundational training first.
What This Course Covers
You’ll master the SQL Server extension for VS Code, learning to connect to multiple database instances, write and execute queries with IntelliSense, and manage database objects through an intuitive interface. The course covers advanced features like query execution plans, debugging stored procedures, and integrating database work into your development workflow.
Practical sessions include setting up cross-platform connections, using integrated source control for database scripts, leveraging snippets and shortcuts for faster development, and deploying database changes across different environments. You’ll also explore how to use VS Code’s terminal integration for command-line database operations.
Who Is This Course For?
Ideal for:
- Full-stack developers: Working across multiple platforms who want unified tooling for both application and database development
- DevOps engineers: Managing SQL Server deployments on Linux containers or cloud environments where lightweight tooling is essential
- Data developers: Currently using SSMS but needing cross-platform capabilities or wanting to integrate database work with Git workflows
May not suit:
- Database administrators: Requiring advanced server management features only available in SQL Server Management Studio
- Complete SQL beginners: Without basic understanding of SQL Server concepts, connections, and query fundamentals
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does Cross-platform SQL Server Management for Developers Using VS Code take?
The course runs for 2 hours and 21 minutes, designed to be completed in one focused session or split across several shorter study periods.
Do I need SQL Server Management Studio experience?
Basic familiarity with SQL Server concepts helps, but the course teaches VS Code-specific approaches that differ from SSMS workflows.
Which operating systems are covered?
The course demonstrates VS Code SQL Server management across Windows, macOS, and Linux, highlighting platform-specific considerations.
Can I connect to cloud SQL Server instances?
Yes, you’ll learn to connect to Azure SQL Database, SQL Server on Azure VMs, and other cloud-hosted SQL Server instances through VS Code.
Course by Julie Lerman on Pluralsight. Duration: 2h 21m. Last verified by AIU.ac: March 2026.
