Install MS SQL Server on Windows

What is MS SQL Server?

MS SQL Server is a database program from Microsoft. A database is like a big, well-organised filing cabinet for information. Websites and apps use it to store and find data quickly.

If you use a Windows VPS or dedicated server, you can install it yourself. You need administrator access. Ask Hostvento support if you are not sure whether your plan allows it.

Before you start

• Check that you have enough free disk space and memory. The installer tells you the needs for your version.
• Log in as an administrator.
• Download the installer from the official Microsoft website. Choose the edition that fits your licence. Some editions are free for learning and small tests.

Steps

1. Run the downloaded installer file.
2. Choose an install type. Basic is the quickest. Custom lets you choose features and folders.
3. Accept the licence terms.
4. Pick the install location, then click Install.
5. Wait until the install ends. Write down the connection details shown at the end.
6. If you chose Custom, open Installation and then New SQL Server stand-alone installation.

   

   

7. On the feature page, tick Database Engine Services. This is the main part that stores your data.
8. On the instance page, keep Default instance unless you need more than one copy on the same machine. An instance is one separate copy of the database engine.
9. On the authentication page, choose Mixed Mode if apps will log in with a username and password. Set a strong password for the sa account. The sa account is the main admin user.
10. Click Add Current User so your own Windows user becomes an admin.
11. Click Next until the install finishes.

    

    

Check that it works

1. Install SQL Server Management Studio, a free tool for managing databases.

   

   

   

   

2. Open it. In Server name, type the name of your computer, or localhost.
3. Click Connect.
4. If you see your server in the left panel, the install worked.

If remote apps must connect

By default, SQL Server listens on port 1433. A port is like a numbered door on your server. Allow this port in the Windows Firewall only if you need outside access. Open it to as few addresses as you can.

Quick recap

• Download the installer from Microsoft and run it as administrator.
• Choose Basic for speed, or Custom for control.
• Tick Database Engine Services and set a strong password.

  

  

  

  

  

• Test the install by connecting with SQL Server Management Studio.

  

  

  

  

  

• Open port 1433 only when you really need remote access.