Install SQL Server 2019 (Express Edition)

Created by Kevin Guo, Modified on Fri, 27 Feb at 3:14 PM by Kevin Guo

Purpose

Install Microsoft SQL Server 2019 Express Edition to host a local database instance for application testing or deployment.

Prerequisites

Windows PC with Administrator rights
Internet access (installer downloads setup files)
Installer downloaded from Microsoft: SQL2019-SSEI-Expr.exe
- https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/download/details.aspx?id=101064

Steps

1. Download the SQL Server 2019 Express installer

Open the Microsoft download page.
Click Download.
Run the installer file (example: SQL2019-SSEI-Expr.exe).

2. Download setup files (Custom)

In the installer window, select Custom.
In Download location, keep the default path (or choose your preferred folder).
Click Install to download the setup package.

3. Start a new SQL Server installation

After download completes, the SQL Server Installation Center opens.
Click Installation (left menu).
Click New SQL Server stand-alone installation or add features to an existing installation.

4. Accept license terms

Tick I accept the license terms.
Click Next.

5. Run setup checks

Let Setup Support Rules run.
Click Next when it shows successful status (resolve any blocking failures if shown).

6. Select features

In Feature Selection, tick Database Engine Services.
Click Next.

7. Configure instance

In Instance Configuration, keep the default option (commonly Default instance) unless you need a named instance.
Click Next.

8. Configure services

In Server Configuration, keep the defaults (unless your project requires specific service accounts).
Click Next.

9. Configure Database Engine authentication

In Database Engine Configuration → Server Configuration tab:
- Select Mixed Mode (SQL Server authentication and Windows authentication).
- Enter and confirm the SA password.
Under Specify SQL Server administrators, click Add Current User.
Click Next.

⚡ Tip: Save the SA password in your project vault/password manager. Don’t be the person who loses it and then “mysteriously” needs a rebuild.

10. Install SQL Server

Review Ready to Install.
Click Install.
Wait for Installation Progress to complete.
Click Close once successful.