# Getting Started with eXtremeSQL

> As described in the Product Family description, McObject's eXtremeDB SQL, eXtremeSQL, is a high-performance implementation of the SQL database programming language for the eXtremeDB embedded database system. eXtremeSQL was designed for use as an “embedded SQL” API for C, C++, Java, C# and Python applications. However, without writing an embedded SQL application, it is possible to develop SQL scripts for and manage eXtremeDB databases using the xSQL utility.

> (If you have not yet installed your eXtremeSQL or eXtremeDB for HPC package, please refer to the installation instructions before proceeding.)

> ## xSQL

> xSQL is an interactive tool for processing SQL statements. It can be used as both server and client to access eXtremeDB local and remote databases via SQL. The tutorial demonstrates how xSQL can be used to quickly create in-memory and persistent storage databases, manage data (insert, import, format, export, etc.), run queries and more.

> The xSQL executable is found in the `target/bin` directory and, depending on command line arguments and/or configuration file settings, it loads shared object (dynamic link) libraries on startup. These libraries are loaded from the `/target/bin.so` directory. Use this quick start link to quickly get up and running with xSQL.

> ## Embedded SQL Applications

> As explained in the eXtremeSQL User Guide the SQL interface is implemented as a C language library with a set of C++, Java, Python and C# wrapper classes. Embedded SQL applications can provide custom tailored interfaces and optimal SQL performance. They naturally require more programming experience in the language and development environment of choice, but experienced developers can implement directly into Windows, Linux and Unix (including MacOS and iOS) applications the full range of functionality available through xSQL. Use this quick start link for an introduction to embedding eXtremeSQL into C, C++, Java, Python and C# applications.