Today, Microsoft announced that SQL Server 2005 Beta 2 is available for download on the Microsoft Developer Network (MSDN) Subscriber Downloads site ( http://msdn.microsoft.com/subscriptions/downloads/ ) to Enterprise, Universal, and Professional subscribers. Microsoft also announced today that SQL Server 2005 Beta 2 includes support for the AMD Opteron with Direct Connect Architecture. The functionality provides simultaneous high-performance 32- and 64-bit computing, and a cost-effective alternative to UNIX-based solutions through 64-bit capabilities that deliver both high scalability and lower cost of ownership. SQL Server 2005 Beta 2 includes enhancements in enterprise data management, developer productivity, and business intelligence. To learn more about the release, go to