How to Install SQL Server 2019: A Comprehensive Guide for Dev

As a developer, you know that SQL Server is an essential tool for managing and storing data. With the release of SQL Server 2019, Microsoft has introduced a range of new features and enhancements to improve its performance and capabilities. In this article, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to install SQL Server 2019, as well as some useful tips and FAQs to help you get started.

What is SQL Server 2019?

Before we dive into the installation process, let’s take a brief look at what SQL Server 2019 is and what it offers. SQL Server is a relational database management system that allows you to store, retrieve, and manipulate data. It is primarily used for building and managing applications that rely on large volumes of data. SQL Server 2019 is the latest version of this software, and it comes with some exciting new features that make it faster, more efficient, and easier to use.

New Features of SQL Server 2019

Some of the new features of SQL Server 2019 include:

System Requirements

Before you begin the installation process, you should ensure that your system meets the following requirements:

Supported Architectures

SQL Server 2019 supports the following architectures:

• x64 (64-bit)
• ARM64 (64-bit)

Installation Steps

Now that you have checked that your system meets the requirements, let’s move on to the installation process. Follow these steps:

Step 1: Download SQL Server 2019

The first step is to download SQL Server 2019 from the official Microsoft website. You can download the software from the following page:

https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/sql-server/sql-server-downloads

You will need to select the version of SQL Server 2019 that is appropriate for your system architecture. Once you have downloaded the software, move on to the next step.

Step 2: Run the Installation Wizard

The next step is to run the SQL Server 2019 installation wizard. You can do this by double-clicking on the downloaded file. The wizard will guide you through the installation process. Follow the instructions on the screen to configure the installation settings, including the installation directory and the instance name.

Step 3: Choose the Installation Type

The next step is to choose the installation type. There are two installation types available: Basic and Custom. The Basic option installs SQL Server with the default settings, while the Custom option allows you to select the features that you want to install. We recommend that you choose the Custom installation type so that you can customize the installation based on your needs.

Step 4: Choose the Features to Install

Once you have selected the Custom installation type, you will be asked to choose the features that you want to install. The available features are grouped into categories, such as Database Engine Services, Analysis Services, and Reporting Services. Select the features that you want to install, and then click Next.

Step 5: Configure the Instance Settings

The next step is to configure the instance settings. This includes setting the instance ID, the SQL Server administrator password, and the collation settings. You can also specify the location of the data and log files. Make sure to review your settings carefully before proceeding.

Step 6: Complete the Installation

Once you have configured the instance settings, you can complete the installation process by clicking the Install button. The installation wizard will install the selected features and components. This may take several minutes, depending on your system configuration.

FAQ

Q: What is the default instance name for SQL Server 2019?

The default instance name for SQL Server 2019 is MSSQLSERVER.

Q: Can I install SQL Server 2019 on a virtual machine?

Yes, you can install SQL Server 2019 on a virtual machine. However, you should ensure that your virtual machine meets the system requirements specified by Microsoft.

Q: Do I need to uninstall previous versions of SQL Server before installing SQL Server 2019?

No, you do not need to uninstall previous versions of SQL Server before installing SQL Server 2019. However, you should ensure that there are no compatibility issues between the different versions.

Q: How can I upgrade from a previous version of SQL Server to SQL Server 2019?

You can upgrade from a previous version of SQL Server to SQL Server 2019 by using the SQL Server Installation Center. The upgrade process will migrate your data and settings to the new version.

Q: How can I uninstall SQL Server 2019?

You can uninstall SQL Server 2019 by using the Programs and Features applet in the Control Panel. Select the SQL Server 2019 instance that you want to remove, and then click Uninstall.

With these steps and tips in mind, you should be able to install SQL Server 2019 successfully and start taking advantage of its new features and capabilities. Good luck!