What is SQL Server 2022 Express?
SQL Server 2022 Express is a free, lightweight edition of Microsoft’s powerful relational database management system, SQL Server. It is designed to provide a cost-effective solution for smaller applications, development, and light production tasks. SQL Server 2022 Express retains the core functionalities of the full SQL Server edition, granting developers and organizations access to a reliable database solution without the expense of a full license.
In this blog post, we will focus on the step-by-step process of installing SQL Server 2022 Express, enabling you to quickly set up a robust database environment.
System Requirements for Installing SQL Server 2022 Express
Before you install SQL Server 2022 Express, make sure your system meets these requirements:
Supported Operating Systems:
- Windows Server 2016
- Windows Server 2019
- Windows Server 2022
- Windows 10
- Windows 11
Processor:
- Intel-compatible processor with a minimum speed of 1 GHz or faster.
Memory:
- At least 512MB of RAM.
Hard Disk Space:
- A minimum of 4.2 GB of available disk space.
Ensure your system meets these specifications to smoothly set up SQL Server 2022 Express without any issues.
How to install SQL Server 2022 Express on Windows Server
- Visit https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/sql-server/sql-server-downloads and scroll down until you find the “Download Now” button for the Express edition.
- Click on “Download Now” and open the SQL2022.exe file.
- After opening the exe file, you can choose the installation type. We will select “Custom” installation.
4. Now, choose the file location where SQL should be installed. And click on Install.
The installer will download the SQL Server Installation Center, where we can proceed with our installation.
5. After the installation is complete, the SQL Server Installation Center will open. Choose the option “New SQL Server standalone installation or add features to an existing installation.” This is the first option.
- Once the setup is open, you will reach the License Terms screen. Click on “I accept the license terms and privacy statement” and then proceed by clicking on “Next.”
- In the Microsoft Update section, check the box for “Use Microsoft Update to check for updates (recommended).”
This is crucial as updates for SQL Server often include important security patches, bug fixes, and performance improvements. Keeping your SQL Server up-to-date ensures that you benefit from the latest enhancements, and it helps safeguard your database system against potential vulnerabilities. Regular updates contribute to the overall stability, security, and optimal functioning of your SQL Server environment.
- In the Install Rules section, the system will verify if the machine is suitable for SQL Server installation. If any failures are indicated, address those issues before proceeding.
After addressing any potential problems, click on “Next.”
- In the Azure Extension tab, uncheck “Azure Extension for SQL Server” as it is not necessary when we are not using Azure.
- In the Feature Selection section, choose the features you want to install.
I recommend leaving the settings at their default values and proceed by clicking “Next.”
- In the Feature Selection section, choose the features you want to install.
- In the Instance Configuration, select “Named Instance” and provide a name if desired. I recommend leaving it at the default setting.
12. Click “Next” in the Server Configuration section.
13. In the Database Engine Configuration section, choose “Mixed Mode” so that we can later log in to the SQL Server using both local and domain credentials.
- In the Database Engine Configuration section, choose “Mixed Mode” to enable login with both local and domain credentials in the SQL Server. Also, set a password for the sa account, which is the local SQL account.
Make sure to securely store the password for the sa account.
Then click “Next” once you have configured everything.
The installation is now being initiated.
- Once the installation is complete, click on “Close.”
- Now, return to the SQL Server Installation Center and click on “Install SQL Server Management Tools.”
What is SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS)?
SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS) is a robust and user-friendly integrated environment created by Microsoft to facilitate the management, configuration, and administration of SQL Server databases. Serving as a comprehensive toolset, SSMS offers a graphical interface and various utilities for users to interact with and oversee different aspects of SQL Server. This includes tasks such as database creation, querying, security implementation, and server configuration.
Essential for both database professionals and developers, SSMS simplifies the complexities of database development and administration. Its intuitive features make it a go-to platform for efficiently handling a wide range of SQL Server-related tasks, contributing to enhanced productivity and streamlined database management.
- On the web page, click on “Download SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS) XX.X.”
Open the installation file and click on “Install.”
- Once the installation is complete, click on “Close” to exit.
- Now, search for SQL Server Management Studio 19 in Windows and open the program.
20. When the program has started, you can now log in to the SQL Server. Choose “SQL Server Authentication” for Authentication. Select “sa” as the login name, as it is the default local login. Enter the password that was set during the installation.
Congratulations! You’ve successfully installed SQL Server 2022 and configured SQL Server Management Studio. With these essential tools in place, you’re now ready to dive into the world of SQL databases. Whether you’re managing data for personal projects or business applications, SQL Server provides a robust and reliable platform. Feel free to explore advanced features and functionalities to optimize your database performance. If you have any questions or want to share your experiences, drop a comment below.