SQL Server Installation Guide

This guide provides comprehensive instructions for installing Microsoft SQL Server on various operating systems. Whether you're deploying on-premises, in the cloud, or in a hybrid environment, these steps will help you get started.

Choose Your Installation Method

SQL Server offers several installation options to suit different needs:

1. SQL Server Installation Center (Windows)

The most common method for installing SQL Server on Windows is through the Installation Center. This graphical interface simplifies the process.

Steps:

  • Download the SQL Server installation media from the official Microsoft website.
  • Run setup.exe to launch the Installation Center.
  • Select Installation from the left-hand menu.
  • Choose New SQL Server stand-alone installation or add features to an existing installation.
  • Follow the on-screen prompts, selecting the desired edition, features, instance name, and service accounts.
  • Configure authentication mode (Windows or Mixed Mode) and provide a strong password for the sa account if Mixed Mode is selected.
  • Review the summary and click Install.

2. Command-Line Installation (Windows & Linux)

For automated deployments or scripting, you can use command-line installation. This is particularly useful for unattended installations.

Example (Windows):

setup.exe /ACTION=Install /FEATURES=SQLENGINE,SSMS /INSTANCENAME=MSSQLSERVER /SQLSYSADMINACCOUNTS="BUILTIN\Administrators" /AGTSVCACCOUNT="NT Service\SQLSERVERAGENT" /IACCEPTSQLSERVERLICENSEAGREEMENT

Example (Linux - Ubuntu):

sudo /opt/mssql/bin/mssql-conf setup \
   --accept-license \
   --mssql-server-license-type Express \
   --mssql-server-edition Developer \
   --collation "SQL_Latin1_General_CP1_CI_AS" \
   --network DNN \
   --telemetry-opt-in true
For detailed command-line parameters and options, refer to the official SQL Server Command-Line Installation documentation.

3. Docker Installation

Running SQL Server in Docker containers provides an isolated and reproducible environment.

docker run -e "ACCEPT_EULA=Y" -e "MSSQL_SA_PASSWORD=YourStrongPassword123!" \
   -p 1433:1433 --name sql_server_demo -d mcr.microsoft.com/mssql/server:latest
Remember to use a strong password for the SA account when using Docker.

System Requirements

Ensure your system meets the minimum requirements before installation:

  • Operating System: Windows Server (specific versions), Windows client OS (specific versions), or various Linux distributions (e.g., Ubuntu, RHEL, SUSE).
  • Hardware: Minimum CPU speed, RAM, and disk space requirements vary by edition and workload. Consult the official SQL Server System Requirements for details.
  • .NET Framework: Required for certain SQL Server components.

Post-Installation Steps

After a successful installation, consider these important next steps:

  • Install SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS): A graphical tool for managing SQL Server instances.
  • Configure Firewall Rules: Ensure that appropriate network ports are open for connectivity.
  • Apply Latest Service Packs and Cumulative Updates: Keep your SQL Server installation up-to-date for security and performance.
  • Perform a Backup: Create an initial backup of your system databases.
Always refer to the latest official Microsoft documentation for the most up-to-date and specific installation instructions for your chosen SQL Server version and operating system.

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