Microsoft is preparing a "serverless" version of SQL Server
Microsoft launched a public survey in which it invites everyone to participate in finding the name for the new edition (or new mode) of SQL Server. The new SQL Server mode is defined as “server-less” (serverless). The following data can be obtained from the survey description:
The new mode will allow the use of a full-featured SQL Server (Express?) without the need for its installation, configuration and maintenance;
all you need to work with the server is the connection string;
The new mode will work only with local connections, and therefore is intended primarily for the purposes of application development, debugging and testing;
However, the new mode can also be used by third-party applications in which it will be possible to implement an appropriately configured SQL Server;
The new mode will work as a user process, not a service;
SQL Server in the new mode will “rise” when connected and work when there is a connection and shut down (shutdown) when the last connection is closed.