Oracle commercialized SQLStructured Query Language — the standard language for querying relational databases. relational databaseA database structured as tables with rows and columns, queried with SQL — the dominant model for business data.s before IBMInternational Business Machines — a major computer and enterprise technology company since the early 20th century.'s DB2 shipped — growing into enterprise software spanning databases, ERP, and cloud. Ellison's decades as CEO made Oracle a fixture of corporate ITInformation technology — the use of computers, networks, and software in organizations. stacks.

Oracle became the defining enterprise database vendor of the client-serverA network model where clients request services from centralized servers — the pattern behind most web applications. era.

It proved relational databaseA database structured as tables with rows and columns, queried with SQL — the dominant model for business data.s could be sold as commercial products at scale.