SQL Server Setup and Installation

Prerequisites

Before you begin the installation process for SQL Server, ensure that your system meets the following minimum requirements:

• Operating System: Supported versions of Windows Server or Windows client. Refer to the official SQL Server release notes for specific OS compatibility.
• Hardware:
  • Processor: x64 Processor.
  • RAM: Minimum 1 GB for Express Edition, 4 GB for all other editions. Recommended 4GB+ for production environments.
  • Disk Space: Approximately 6 GB for a default installation. Additional space is required for databases and logs.
• .NET Framework: Required version will be installed if not present.
• Network: TCP/IP protocol enabled.

Installation Types

SQL Server offers several installation options to suit different needs:

• New SQL Server Standalone Installation

  This is the most common method, used for installing a new instance of SQL Server on a single server.

• Add Features to an Existing Instance

  Allows you to add components like Analysis Services or Reporting Services to an already installed SQL Server instance.

• Upgrade an Existing SQL Server Instance

  Used to upgrade an older version of SQL Server to a newer one while preserving your existing configurations and data.

• Advanced Options

  Includes features like Failover Cluster Installation, Azure SQL Edge, and installations using scripts (e.g., PowerShell).

Step-by-Step Installation Guide (Standalone)

This guide covers a typical standalone installation. For cluster or upgrade scenarios, refer to specific documentation.

1. Download SQL Server

   Obtain the SQL Server installation media from the official Microsoft Download Center. Choose the edition that fits your requirements (Developer, Express, Standard, Enterprise, etc.).

2. Run Setup

   Locate the downloaded file (usually an ISO or executable) and run setup.exe as an administrator.

3. Installation Type Selection

   In the SQL Server Installation Center, select Installation, then choose New SQL Server standalone installation or add features to an existing installation.

4. Product Key

   Enter your product key if prompted. For evaluation or Developer editions, you might not need a key.

5. License Terms

   Accept the license terms and click Next.

6. Feature Selection

   Choose the components you want to install. A Database Engine Services installation is fundamental. You can also select other features like SQL Server Data Tools, Reporting Services, etc.

   Feature: Database Engine Services
   Feature: Analysis Services
   Feature: Reporting Services - Native
   Feature: SQL Server Data Tools (SSDT)

7. Instance Configuration

   Specify whether to install a default instance (named MSSQLSERVER) or a named instance. A named instance is useful if you plan to run multiple SQL Server instances on the same machine.

   Default Instance: MSSQLSERVER

   Named Instance: e.g., SQL2019

8. Server Configuration

   Configure the service accounts for SQL Server services (Database Engine, Agent, etc.). It's recommended to use dedicated service accounts for enhanced security, but the default Virtual Accounts are often sufficient for basic setups.

9. Database Engine Configuration

   Authentication Mode: Choose between Windows Authentication mode (recommended for most scenarios) or Mixed Mode (SQL Server authentication and Windows Authentication). If you select Mixed Mode, you must set a strong password for the sa (system administrator) login.

   Specify SQL Server Administrators: Add the Windows users or groups that should have administrative privileges on the SQL Server instance.

10. Ready to Install

    Review your selections and click Install to begin the installation.

11. Installation Complete

    Once the installation is finished, you'll see a success message. You can now connect to your SQL Server instance using SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS) or other tools.

Post-Installation Configuration

After a successful installation, consider the following configuration steps:

• Connect with SSMS

  Install and use SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS) to connect to your new instance. You can download SSMS separately.

• Configure Network Protocols

  Ensure that TCP/IP and Named Pipes are enabled for network access if required. You can manage this using the SQL Server Configuration Manager.

  For enhanced security, it's often recommended to disable Named Pipes if you primarily use TCP/IP.

• Firewall Configuration

  Open the necessary ports (default TCP 1433) in your Windows Firewall to allow remote connections.

• Create Databases and Logins

  Start creating your databases and user logins for application access.

• Install Updates and Service Packs

  Check for and install the latest cumulative updates and service packs for your SQL Server version.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Here are solutions to frequently encountered problems during setup:

• Setup Fails with Error Code XXXX

  Check the SQL Server setup logs for detailed error messages. These are typically located in C:\Program Files\Microsoft SQL Server\150\Setup Bootstrap\Log (the version number might vary).

• Cannot Connect to SQL Server

  Verify that the SQL Server services are running in SQL Server Configuration Manager. Ensure the correct server name (SERVERNAME\INSTANCENAME) is used. Check firewall rules and network protocol configurations.

• Login Failed for User 'sa'

  If you are using Mixed Mode authentication and the 'sa' login fails, ensure you have set a strong password and that the account is not disabled. If using Windows Authentication, ensure the correct Windows user is being used.