How to Download & Install Microsoft SQL Server Express

Here’s how to install Microsoft SQL Server Express edition.

Download the Free Software (Microsoft SQL Server Express)

1. Go to Microsoft’s SQL Server Express download page.
2. Scroll down and under Express click Download now.
3. Open the downloaded file. How you do that depends on the web browser you use. Here’s a couple ways it may work:
   • Open the file via the Downloads panel.
     
   • Click the file at the bottom left.
     
   • Click Run.
     

Install SQL Server Express

1. When asked to allow this app to make changes to your device, click Yes.
2. When asked to select an installation type, click Basic.
3. Accept the License Terms.
4. Click Install and wait for it to finish.
   If it says the computer needs to be restarted, do so when it tells you.