What is the basic functions for master, msdb, model, tempdb databases?
The MASTER: Database holds information for all databases located on the SQL Server instance and is the glue that holds the engine together. Because SQL Server cannot start without a functioning master database, you must administer this database with care. The MSDB: Database stores information regarding database backups, SQL Agent information, DTS packages, SQL Server jobs, and some replication information such as for log shipping. The TEMPDB: Holds temporary objects such as global and local temporary tables and stored procedures. The MODEL is essentially a template database used in the creation of any new user database created in the instance.