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Install Microsoft SQL Server Express

Microsoft SQL Server is not installed by default on your Windows Server. Most users opt to install and use the free version, Microsoft SQL Server Express.

Note: SQL Server databases aren’t backwards-compatible. For example, if you have a backup of a database created in SQL Server 2019, you won’t be able to import it into an earlier version. Additionally, we don’t recommend installing multiple versions or multiple instances of SQL Server.
  1. Connect to your Windows server with Remote Desktop Connection.
  2. Download your desired SQL Server Express version.
  3. Once downloaded, run the installation file.
  4. Follow the steps provided by the installation file. If you’re unsure of which options to select, contact your server administrator for assistance.

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