MSDN Documentation

Installing SQL Server

This guide provides step-by-step instructions for installing Microsoft SQL Server on various operating systems. Whether you're setting up a new instance for development or a production environment, this documentation covers the essential prerequisites, installation types, and post-installation configurations.

Prerequisites

Before proceeding with the installation, ensure your system meets the following minimum hardware and software requirements:

  • Operating System: Windows Server 2019, Windows Server 2022, Windows 10 (64-bit), Windows 11 (64-bit). (Specific editions may vary by SQL Server version.)
  • Hardware:
    • Processor: x64 Processor (Intel or AMD)
    • Memory: Minimum 1 GB RAM (2 GB for Enterprise, Developer, and Evaluation editions). More is recommended for production environments.
    • Disk Space: Minimum 4.5 GB available disk space.
  • .NET Framework: Required version will be installed automatically if not present.
  • Internet Connection: Required for downloading components and updates.
Note: Always refer to the official SQL Server version release notes for the most up-to-date and specific system requirements.

Installation Types

SQL Server offers several installation methods to suit different needs:

  1. New SQL Server stand-alone installation: Installs a new instance of SQL Server on a server.
  2. Add features to an existing installation: Allows you to add new components to an already installed SQL Server instance.
  3. New SQL Server failover cluster installation: Installs SQL Server as a clustered resource for high availability.
  4. Add node to a SQL Server failover cluster: Extends an existing SQL Server failover cluster by adding another node.

Installation Steps (Standard Edition Example)

This section outlines the common steps for a new stand-alone installation using the SQL Server installer.

1. Download the Installer

Download the appropriate SQL Server edition (e.g., Express, Standard, Developer) from the official Microsoft website.

2. Run the Installer

Double-click the downloaded executable to start the setup process.

3. Select Installation Type

Choose "New SQL Server stand-alone installation or add features to an existing installation."

4. Enter Product Key (if applicable)

For licensed editions like Standard, enter your product key.

5. Accept License Terms

Review and accept the license terms.

6. Firewall Rules

The installer will check for firewall rules. Ensure necessary ports (default: TCP 1433) are open if you plan to access the server remotely.

7. Select Features

Choose the components you want to install. Typically, "Database Engine Services" is essential. You can also select Analysis Services, Reporting Services, Integration Services, etc.

Tip: For development purposes, the Developer Edition is free and includes all features of Enterprise Edition.

8. Instance Configuration

Configure the SQL Server instance. You can install a "Default instance" (MSSQLSERVER) or a "Named instance" (e.g., SQLEXPRESS).

9. Server Configuration

Configure service accounts for SQL Server and SQL Server Agent. It's recommended to use dedicated service accounts with minimal privileges.

10. Authentication Mode

Choose between Windows Authentication mode (recommended for security) or Mixed Mode Authentication (which allows SQL Server and Windows authentication). If you choose Mixed Mode, you'll be prompted to set a strong password for the 'sa' (system administrator) login.

11. Data Directories

Specify the locations for your database files and logs. It's best practice to place these on separate drives for performance and manageability.

12. Ready to Install

Review the summary of your selections and click "Install" to begin the installation.

Important: Ensure you have administrative privileges on the machine before starting the installation.

13. Installation Complete

Once the installation finishes, you will see a success message. You can then connect to your new SQL Server instance using SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS).

Post-Installation Configuration

After a successful installation, consider the following configurations:

  • Install SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS): A powerful tool for managing SQL Server instances.
  • Configure Network Protocols: Enable TCP/IP and Named Pipes if needed.
  • Set up SQL Server Agent: For automating administrative tasks.
  • Configure Firewall: Ensure remote connections are allowed if required.
  • Perform Security Audits: Review and harden security settings.

For detailed information on advanced installations, such as clustered deployments or installations on Linux, please refer to the specific documentation sections.