SQL Server Installation Guide

This guide provides step-by-step instructions for installing Microsoft SQL Server on various platforms. We will cover different editions and common installation scenarios.

1. Before You Begin

Ensure you have met all the system requirements for the SQL Server version you intend to install. This typically includes:

  • Supported operating system (Windows Server, Windows Desktop, Linux).
  • Sufficient disk space.
  • Adequate RAM and CPU resources.
  • Necessary administrative privileges.

It's also recommended to:

  • Review the release notes for any known issues or specific considerations.
  • Back up any existing databases if performing an upgrade or modifying a current installation.

2. Downloading SQL Server

You can download the SQL Server installation media from the official Microsoft website. Common editions include:

  • SQL Server Enterprise: Full-featured, high-end data center edition.
  • SQL Server Standard: Core database for non-critical applications.
  • SQL Server Developer: Free edition for development and testing.
  • SQL Server Express: Free, entry-level, and highly scalable edition.

Visit the SQL Server Downloads page to obtain the installer.

3. Installation Methods

SQL Server can be installed using several methods:

3.1. Installation Wizard (Windows)

This is the most common method for Windows installations. It provides a graphical interface to guide you through the process.

  1. Run the downloaded SQL Server setup executable.
  2. Select "Installation" from the left-hand menu.
  3. Choose "New SQL Server stand-alone installation or add features to an existing installation".
  4. Accept the license terms.
  5. Select the features you wish to install (e.g., Database Engine Services, Analysis Services).
  6. Configure instance names, service accounts, authentication mode (Windows or SQL Server Authentication), and collation settings.
  7. Specify data directories and TempDB configuration.
  8. Review the installation summary and click "Install".

3.2. Command Line Installation (Windows & Linux)

For automated deployments or unattended installations, the command-line interface (CLI) is highly effective. You can use a configuration file (ConfigurationFile.ini) to specify all installation parameters.

Example (Windows):


setup.exe /ConfigurationFile="C:\path\to\ConfigurationFile.ini"

Example (Linux using mssql-tools):


sudo apt-get install mssql-server
sudo /opt/mssql/bin/mssql-conf setup

Refer to the official Microsoft documentation for detailed command-line options and configuration file syntax.

3.3. Docker Container

Running SQL Server in a Docker container offers flexibility and isolation. This is a popular choice for development and testing environments.


docker run -e "ACCEPT_EULA=Y" -e "MSSQL_SA_PASSWORD=YourStrongPassword" -p 1433:1433 -d mcr.microsoft.com/mssql/server:latest

4. Post-Installation Steps

After a successful installation, consider the following:

  • Verify Installation: Connect to the SQL Server instance using SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS) or Azure Data Studio.
  • Apply Latest Updates: Install the latest service packs and cumulative updates to ensure security and stability.
  • Configure Firewall: Ensure that the necessary ports (default is 1433) are open in your firewall to allow remote connections.
  • Set Up Backups: Implement a robust backup strategy immediately.
Important: Always refer to the official Microsoft SQL Server documentation for the most up-to-date and detailed information specific to your version and operating system.