MSDN Documentation

Prerequisites for Analysis Services Deployment

This document outlines the essential prerequisites you must meet before deploying SQL Server Analysis Services (SSAS) in your environment. Proper preparation ensures a smooth and successful deployment.

Introduction

Deploying Analysis Services involves installing and configuring SSAS to support your business intelligence and data analysis needs. Understanding and fulfilling the prerequisites is the first critical step in this process.

System Requirements

Ensure your server hardware meets or exceeds the recommended specifications for the version of SQL Server you are installing. Key considerations include:

• Processor: Minimum clock speed and number of cores appropriate for your workload.
• Memory (RAM): Sufficient RAM for SSAS operations, especially for large datasets and complex queries. Microsoft recommends a minimum of 4 GB for SQL Server, but SSAS may require significantly more depending on usage.
• Disk Space: Adequate free space for the SSAS binaries, data files, log files, and temporary files.
• Network Interface: A reliable network connection.

For detailed system requirements, please refer to the official SQL Server documentation for your specific version.

Software Prerequisites

Before installing Analysis Services, ensure the following software components are in place:

• Supported Operating System: A compatible version of Windows Server or Windows client operating system.
• .NET Framework: The required version of the .NET Framework, as specified by the SQL Server installation media.
• Other SQL Server Components: Depending on your deployment scenario, you may need to install other SQL Server features such as Database Engine or Reporting Services.

Permissions

The user account performing the installation must have the following permissions:

• Local Administrator Privileges: Required to install software and configure system services.
• Permissions for Service Accounts: The chosen service account for Analysis Services must have appropriate permissions to access directories, network resources, and other SQL Server components.

Network Considerations

When deploying Analysis Services, consider the following network aspects:

• Firewall Rules: Ensure that necessary ports for SSAS communication (e.g., TCP port 2383 for Analysis Services 2016 and later, TCP port 2382 for earlier versions) are open on the server's firewall and any network firewalls between clients and the SSAS server.
• Authentication: Plan for how users and applications will authenticate with SSAS. This typically involves Windows authentication.
• Client Connectivity: Ensure that client machines can resolve the SSAS server name and connect to it.

Licensing

Ensure you have the appropriate SQL Server licenses for your deployment. This includes licenses for the server and any client access licenses (CALs) if applicable to your edition and usage model.

Once these prerequisites are met, you can proceed with the SQL Server installation and configure Analysis Services for your specific needs.