SQL Server Installation Guide for Windows

This guide provides detailed instructions for installing SQL Server on Windows operating systems. Choose the edition and installation method that best suits your needs.

Before You Begin

Ensure your system meets the minimum hardware and software requirements for the version of SQL Server you intend to install. Refer to the official SQL Server documentation for the most up-to-date requirements.

System Requirements Checklist:

Note: Always download the latest cumulative updates and service packs after installation to ensure your SQL Server is secure and up-to-date.

Installation Methods

SQL Server can be installed using several methods, each offering different levels of control and automation.

1. Basic Installation (SQL Server Express)

SQL Server Express is a free edition suitable for development, small applications, and learning purposes. It has some limitations on resource usage.

  1. Download the SQL Server Express installer from the Microsoft SQL Server Downloads page.
  2. Run the downloaded executable.
  3. Select "Basic" installation.
  4. Accept the license terms.
  5. Choose an installation directory or use the default.
  6. The installer will download and install SQL Server Express.

2. Standard/Enterprise Installation (using Setup Wizard)

This method provides a comprehensive wizard for installing SQL Server Standard, Enterprise, or Developer editions.

  1. Download the SQL Server installation media (ISO file or executable) from your Volume Licensing Service Center or the Microsoft SQL Server Downloads page.
  2. Mount the ISO file or run the executable.
  3. Select "Installation" from the left-hand menu.
  4. Choose "New SQL Server stand-alone installation or add features to an existing installation."
  5. Enter your product key or select the free edition (e.g., Developer).
  6. Accept the license terms.
  7. The setup process will check for prerequisites and system readiness.
  8. Select the features you want to install (Database Engine Services, Analysis Services, etc.).
  9. Configure instance names. The default instance is typically named "MSSQLSERVER". Named instances allow multiple SQL Server instances on one machine.
  10. Configure service accounts and Collation settings.
  11. Configure the Server Configuration screen, including Authentication Mode (Windows Authentication or Mixed Mode). If using Mixed Mode, set a strong SA (System Administrator) password.
  12. Add user accounts for SQL Server administrators.
  13. Customize the data directories if needed.
  14. Review your selections and click "Install."

3. Command-Line Installation (Silent Installation)

For automated deployments, you can use the command-line interface.

First, extract the installation files from the setup media to a folder, for example, C:\SQLServerInstall.

Then, open an elevated Command Prompt or PowerShell and run the setup command:

setup.exe /Action=Install /InstanceName="SQLEXPRESS" /SQLSVCACCOUNT="NT Service\MSSQLSERVER" /SQLSYSADMINACCOUNTS="YourDomain\YourUser" /AGTSVCACCOUNT="NT AUTHORITY\Network Service" /FEATURES=SQLENGINE,SSMS

Note: Adjust the parameters (/InstanceName, /SQLSVCACCOUNT, /SQLSYSADMINACCOUNTS, /FEATURES) based on your specific requirements and SQL Server edition.

For more detailed command-line options, refer to the Microsoft documentation.

Post-Installation Steps

After the installation is complete, it's recommended to perform the following steps:

Tip: For production environments, consider installing SQL Server on a dedicated server or a virtual machine with sufficient resources and robust security configurations.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues during installation, consult the SQL Server setup logs, which are typically located in C:\Program Files\Microsoft SQL Server\version\Setup Bootstrap\Log\.

Common problems include:

For further assistance, refer to the Microsoft SQL Server troubleshooting guides.