Microsoft® SQL Server™ 2008 All-In-One Desk Reference For Dummies®

I.4.1. Installing SQL Server

Deploying SQL Server 2008 on your computer is much less complicated than you might think. However, even if you have a screamingly fast server, completion can take some time; you probably have enough time to hit the gym, shower, and grab a sandwich after the actual file copying is underway.

NOTE

SQL Server places some significant hardware and software requirements on your planned database platform. Take a look at Book I, Chapter 3 to get the scoop on these necessities before you get started.

When you determine your system is up to snuff and you're ready to get started, here's what to do:

1. Run the Setup.exe application from your SQL Server installation CD.

   In many cases, inserting the media triggers the installation application to start automatically.

2. If necessary, install the .NET Framework and accept its license terms.

   Assuming you have an Internet connection, SQL Server will automatically retrieve this software from Microsoft's servers.

3. Review your options in the SQL Server Installation Center.

   As you can see in Figure 4-1, the SQL Server Installation Center offers several helpful paths, including hardware and software requirements, upgrade options, and SQL Server samples.

4. Click on the Installation option from the SQL Server Installation Center.

   This brings up a new dialog box, shown in Figure 4-2 that offers a number of different installation trajectories, including new stand-alone installations, clustering configurations, upgrades, and so on. In this case, ...